Charles-H_-Foehlinger-85029

Obituary

Charles Foehlinger, 75, veteran superintendent of Burlington parks and public property, died early Monday morning in Burlington hospital. Foehlinger, who had undergone and operation earlier this year had been ill for about a week. His condition had been regarded as serious since he was hospitalized. He was serving his 12th year as a city council member at the time of his death. He was first elected in 1938 and was successful at reelection for 5 more terms. A popular favorite at the polls, he led the ticket on several occasions and usually carried his position by wide margins. During his stay in office considerable improvements were made in Crapo Park, the Dankwardt addition was improved and softball and bard baseball diamonds built, and Perkins Park facilities expanded, He was leading figure in securing park and playground equipment it Sunnyside school in a joint city-school administration program. In addition to supervision of parks, Foehlinger also administered municipal airport, Mac-Arthur bridge, small local parks, Memorial auditorium and other municipal buildings. Foehlinger's successor will be named by the city council on recommendation of Mayor Thomas Smith. The city council Monday passed a resolution commending Foehlinger for his earnest efforts and hard work on behalf of residents of Burlington. The resolution cited him as dedicating his life to public service and carrying out his duties with untiring efforts to the best of his ability. He was born in Monroe, Ia., June 4, 1874, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry R. Foehilnger. The family moved to Burlington when he was 2 years old and he remained here during his entire life. Educated in Burlington schools, he was employed for a long time in the furniture business in Burlington. He married Jennie W. Larson, May 16, 1900. She died July 16, 1945. Active in the Methodist church, Foehlinger had a record of 40 years of perfect Sunday school attendance. He also served for that length of time as a communion steward. One of First Methodist church's ushers, he was a familiar figure at the front door for each Sunday morning service. He joined the church in 1889, served as a trustee for a number of years. Foehlinger was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose, Kiwanis club, Hawkeye Natives and a charter member of Woodmen of the World. Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Homer Ball, Burlington; 2 grandsons, Homer Ball, Jr., San Diego, Calif., and Jon Thad Ball, Burlington; a brother, Frank, Burlington, and 2 sisters, Mrs. Mathilda Decker, Burlington, and Mrs. H.E. Hadix, Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. The body is at the Burnett Wallen funeral home.