Obituary of Carl Keith Veitenhans

Carl Keith Veitenhans AKA "Papa" Passed away on Thursday, September 1, 2011 at his home in Tacoma. He was born July 25, 1928 in Olalla, Washington to Vera and Coley Veitenhans. He grew up with his brother Alvin, married to Joan (Patterson) and sister Diane, married to Chuck ( Hunter). He served in the Air Force, was a fourth generation salmon fisherman, and retired from the Peninsula Light Company after 37 years as a lineman. He enjoyed golf, being on the water no matter the vessel, gardening, his family and his dog Cindy. (We hope not in that order). Once asked, "What would have been your dream or fantasy" he replied, "To be a hobo and ride the freight train to where ever it took me." He later denied saying so, but there are witnesses! A man of great humor, dignity, and love of country, he was blessed with many things, but athletic ability was not one of them. Always willing to be the brunt of a joke, "Guess dad's on my team" didn't seem to offend him. He may not have had skills, but he had heart and again, a much needed sense of humor. He was not only a son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather, he was a lion. A man who lived life with wonder, questions, curiosity, and a robust nature. He wouldn't see himself in that light, but those who knew him would agree. He could fix anything, solve any problem, and never said no if you asked for help. “Papa” is survived by his wife of 61 years, Vianna Grace Veitenhans, five extraordinary children (who each had a hand in writing this obituary) Christopher, Neal, (Karen), Gregory ,(Ava), Charles “Marty” and Vianna Lyn McManus (Ron Gatty), 8 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. While he may have been a mortal man, he had super hero powers. Surviving so much that the Energizer Bunny has nothing on him. A private ceremony will be held October 2nd, on the "Voyager", captained by his son Greg Veitenhans. Departing Gig Harbor where the family lived and grew up, to a final destination at Olalla bay where he will be honored with a flower ceremony and scattering of ashes. Carl, husband, father, "Papa", brother, will be sorely missed and forever loved. Life is changed without him, but he will forever be in our hearts. No donations necessary, just remember our man.