Harold Hochberger

Harold C. Hochberger, 88, of Great Falls, died at Peace Hospice on December 17, 2013 of natural causes.Harold was born December 15, 1925 to Harry and Alice (Nelson) Hochberger in Chicago, IL. Always fascinated by airplanes and flying, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1943 and was called to active duty in February 1944. He was trained as an aerial gunner and served as the ball turret gunner on B24s. He was stationed in Cerignola, Italy with the 15th Air Force, 456th Bomb Group, 746th Bomb Squadron.After the war, Harold returned to Chicago and began his career in plumbing, becoming a proud, lifelong member of the Plumbers Union and he continued his interest in flying by obtaining his private pilot's license. Harold married the love of his life, Dolores Sweeney, on June 14, 1947, and they raised two daughters, Linda and Diane.Harold owned his own plumbing business in the 1950s, but changing business rules made it difficult for him to expand so he sold his business and began to work for others, eventually becoming foreman on large construction projects that included hospitals, a university, government buildings and a major upgrade to one of the terminals at O'Hare Airport. This was work he enjoyed immensely.He and Dolores loved to travel and visit new places, taking extended vacations around the country with their children. After Harold retired, he and Dolores traveled around the country with a fifth-wheel for 18 months before settling in Harrison, AR near their youngest daughter. When Dolores died, Harold moved to Great Falls to be with his eldest daughter.Harold had an inexhaustible sense of curiosity. He had to know how things worked and when something interested him, he learned everything he could about it. He was an excellent photographer, a hobby he started in high school. For many years he had a darkroom in the house; when digital photography replaced film, he took an online course to learn how to use Photoshop so he could continue his darkroom work on the computer. He was a skilled carpenter and woodworker, making fine pieces of furniture and home decor. He enjoyed gardening, taking particular joy in growing tomatoes and roses and he was a talented baker who especially enjoyed making all kinds of breads and cookies.Survivors include his daughters Linda Long of Great Falls and Diane Evans of Harrison, AR; and grandsons Tommy Evans of Harrison, AR and Jonathan Evans of Little Rock, AR.Harold was preceded in death by his parents; sister Charlotte Genslinger; and beloved wife, Dolores.Per Harold's request no funeral services will be held. A small gathering for friends and family to celebrate Harold's life will be held on December 29th at 1 p.m. at 1917 3rd Ave N.Memorials may be made to Peace Hospice, 1101 26th St S, Great Falls, MT 59405, or a charity of the donor's choice.