Hilton John Wachholz

Hilton John "Bud" Wachholz, 93 a resident of Oakleaf Village, died Friday, March 8, 2013. He was born August 1, 1919 in Westfield, WI to the late Leonard and Julia Wachholz. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army Air Corps serving during WWII. He graduated with top honors from Casey Jones School of Aeronautics, aircraft mechanic school. In 1959 he began working full time on his own building racing engines prior to which he was employed with North American Aviation and Columbia Research and Development. He was the first man in Columbus to have an engine balancing machine that served as a basis for his engine and speed shop, and later a tube bending business. He had many successes with engine building and maintaining them for many local racers. He was a member of USAC and his passion was racing. He was an all round great guy who had an impact on many people. He is preceded in death by sister Doris Simek and brother Glen Wachholz. He is survived by Alma his loving wife of 67 years, daughters Karen (Dennis) Gallien and Janet (John) Belcher, grandchildren Bryan (Jeanna), Brad and Brandon Gallien and Katie and Denise Belcher, step great grandchildren Jaqy and Brayden Denison, sisters Elaine Wachholz and Violet (Bill) Neuhaus, nephews Bill and Jim Simek, Mike and Rick Wachholz and numerous friends. Family will receive friends Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at SCHOEDINGER NORTH CHAPEL, 5554 Karl Rd. where a funeral service will be held Friday at 10 AM. Interment will follow in Kingwood Memorial Park. Online condolences may be made to www.schoedinger.com