Born in Denhoff, N.D., on Aug. 10, 1919

Departed on June 27, 2011, and resided in Coeur d'Alene

Harold Wilbert Vietz departed into heaven Monday, June 27, 2011.

Harold served his country in the Navy during World War II in 1940-1946, serving as an aircraft mechanic AMM/first class on the USS Enterprise. In 1944 he was assigned to the USS Randolf as a Chief Petty Officer. With an honorable discharge, Harold moved to Walla Walla, Wash., managing at the Hudson Motor Company. He relocated to Brunswick, Ga., in 1950 where he worked for Glenn Island Steel Company, later transferring to Videla, Ga., opening and operating their new location. In 1962, he moved to Newport, Wash., and worked at Diamond International as a planer operator until retiring in 1980s.

Harold married Josephine Gamble in 1942 and became proud parents of twins Cheri and Terry in 1950. He and his wife traveled extensively across the United States after his retirement. Harold enjoyed farming, gardening, fishing, hunting and bowling. The latter part of his life he and his loving partner Eiko Alby enjoyed socializing and entertaining those on the bus to the Coeur d'Alene Casino.

Harold is survived by partner Eiko Alby of Coeur d'Alene; son Terry Vietz and partner Jacqueline of Colfax, Wash.; daughter Cheri Kuprienko and spouse Walt of Coeur d'Alene; and daughter Linda Alby of Minneapolis, Minn. He has seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Harold is survived by two sisters, Velva Knopp of Walla Walla, Wash., and Elaine Johnson of Cathedral City, Calif.

We will miss his wonderful sense of humor and sharp wit. Harold was a loving Papa and his playful nature delighted his friends and family. Always quick with a smile and a loving wink, Harold was a grand storyteller, musician and comical spirit loved by all.

Immediate family graveside service to be held at Coeur d'Alene Memorial Gardens. Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of the final arrangements.