Albert Joseph Appelhanz

Albert Joseph Appelhanz

August 12, 1936 ~ January 23, 2016

Albert Joseph Appelhanz, age 79, lifetime Montrose and Olathe resident passed away at home on January 23, 2016.  Albert was born August 12, 1936 in Olathe, Colorado to John and Mary (Unrein) Appelhanz.  He graduated from Montrose High School in 1954.  On February 5, 1972, he  married Katherine Brown.

Albert was a farmer and rancher until his retirement.  He loved the outdoors, and enjoyed hunting and camping, but also passed this love on to his children.  His precious time was spent with his family, children and especially his grandchildren.  He was a devoted husband who never failed to tell his wife, “I Love You.” Albert was a wonderful father who taught his children to be honorable and kind.  He also served in the National Guard for nine years.

Albert is survived by his wife of  44 years; his children, Adam (Teri) Appelhanz, David (Shana) Appelhanz, both of Colorado; daughter Jennifer (Michael) Ruegemer of Long Prairie, Minnesota; his brothers, Edward (Shirley) Appelhanz, John E. Appelhanz, Tony (Marion) Appelhanz, all of Montrose; sister Eleanor (Robert) Schlauger of Grand Junction, Colorado; brother-in-law Ronald (Darcy) Brown of Montana; sister-in-law, Geraldine (Dan) DeWeese, Carrie (Jeff) Bridges both of Oklahoma, Carolyn (Ray Hughes) Diaz of Grand Junction, Colorado; 14 Grandchildren, Micayla, Bryanna, Tessa, Tami, Bobby Joe, Mackenzie, Lori, Katherine, Nicholas, Theresita, Gabriel, Bridget, Gerard and Mariana.   Albert is preceded in death by his parents, brother George and sister Mary Jo Kubin.

A Funeral Mass is scheduled for Thursday, January 28, 2016 at 10:00A.M. at Crippin Funeral Home Chapel.  Rite of Committal will follow the mass at Grand View Cemetery, west of Montrose.  Crippin Funeral Home, in Montrose is assisting the family.