Hans Franz Strohmer, a consummate gentleman, devoted husband, and distinguished hotelier, passed away on Thursday, the 17th of October in Houston. He was 82 years of age. Born on the 30th of July 1942, in Vienna, Austria, to Johann and Maria (Harrer) Strohmer. Hans' early life was shaped by the profound challenges of World War II. His father, a resistance leader in Vienna, was tragically killed en route to Mauthausen Concentration Camp, where his aunt also perished.
Despite the hardships of his early years, Hans grew into a man of quiet strength, resilience, and deep resolve. Following Austria’s declaration of neutrality in 1955, he served in the Austrian military’s tank division. At just sixteen, Hans left for Switzerland to pursue higher education. He attended the prestigious Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne, where he earned a degree in Hotel Administration, furthering his studies at the Culinary Institute of Vienna. Remarkably, Hans entered this French-speaking university fluent only in German, but within three months, his determination led him to master French. In time, he also became fluent in English, which he saw as his “passport to success” in the global hospitality industry. He earned the designation of Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA), solidifying his expertise in the field.
Hans' illustrious career took him around the world, beginning in Winnipeg, Canada, and, together with his former wife Wendy, to Bermuda, Boston—where their son Peter was born, Philadelphia, Houston—where their son Michael was born, and eventually to Arlington, Texas.
After returning to Houston in 1994, Hans met the love of his life, Nancy, in 1995, and they were married in 1997. He often said that meeting Nancy was the greatest blessing of his life. Shortly after, he became Regional Vice President for Marriott, based in San Antonio. In 1999, Hans joined Nancy in her manufacturing business, working alongside her until its sale in 2001. Together, they shared a deep love for travel, exploring all seven continents, as well as a mutual passion for classical music, hiking, duplicate bridge and cherishing their time together.
Hans held prominent leadership roles with renowned hotel chains including Marriott, Omni, Hyatt, Sheraton, Sonesta, and Dunfey Hotels. A pinnacle of his distinguished career was being named Omni’s Manager of the Year, a testament to his dedication and expertise in the hospitality industry.
In 1983, Hans proudly became a U.S. citizen, frequently saying with pride that he "came to Texas as soon as he could." Hans was also an active community leader, serving as president of the Greater San Antonio Hotel and Motel Association, as well as contributing to the Executive Club of Houston, Rotary Club, San Antonio Library Foundation Board, Houston Symphony Board, and Skal Club International.
Hans is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Strohmer; children, Michael Strohmer and his wife Lachelle, Shelley Cooper and her husband Roger, Ray M. Stopper, daughter-in-law, Marji Strohmer; sister, Sissy Wanek; his precious grandchildren, Raymond J. Stopper, Mariah Stopper and her fiancé Ryan, Jayce Strohmer, Gracyn Strohmer, Kendyll Strohmer, Max Strohmer, Brody Cooper, Bryce Cooper, Brett Cooper and his wife Wisty, Becky Foland and her husband Craig; niece, Muna Saied-Reuning; great-niece, Samira Saied; and great-nephew, Laurin Saied.
Hans is preceded in death by his parents, Maria (Strohmer) Schall, and Johann Strohmer; son, Peter Strohmer; sister, Helga Saied; brother-in-law, Hamid Saied; and nephew, Farid Saied.
Hans will be deeply missed by his loving family, close friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.
A celebration of life will be conducted at two o’clock in the afternoon on Monday, the 4th of November, at St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, 717 Sage Road in Houston.
Immediately following, all are invited to greet the family during a reception to be held in the grand foyer of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston.
Prior to the service, the family will have gathered for a private inurnment in the Texas Liberty Mausoleum at Memorial Oaks Cemetery in Houston.
For those unable to attend the service in-person, virtual attendance may be accessed by selecting the "Join Livestream" icon in the service section. You may also share fond memories and words of comfort and condolences with his family by selecting the “Add a Memory” icon.
In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions in his memory may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association by selecting the link below under "Donations"; or to the charity of one’s choice.
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