Carl John Holdampf

Carl John Holdampf, born in April 1928 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully in January 2026 in Novi, Michigan. Carl was a devoted family man whose greatest joy was time spent with those he loved, especially during holidays surrounded by his children and grandchildren. He raised two sons and remained a steady, loving presence throughout his life. His warmth, dedication, and deep appreciation for family defined who he was. A gifted engineer, Carl had a brilliant and curious mind that never stopped solving problems. Over the course of his distinguished career, he was awarded more than 30 U.S. patents—an enduring testament to his ingenuity and passion for his work. He earned a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, one of his proudest accomplishments, and enjoyed a long professional journey that included roles with Chrysler, Lear Corporation, Quanex Corporation, Magna International, and several other companies along the way. Carl was a member of both the Engineering Society of Detroit (ESD) and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), reflecting his lifelong commitment to the engineering profession. Outside of work, Carl found happiness in boating, fishing, woodworking, model trains, traveling, and singing. Whether creating something with his hands or sharing a song, he embraced life with enthusiasm and heart. He often said, “I’m the luckiest man on earth; I loved my wife, family, and job,” a sentiment that perfectly captured his gratitude and outlook on life. Carl was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margaret; his father, Carl; his mother, Julia; and his brother, Walter. He is survived by his sister, Janet; his sons, Phil and Cliff; his grandchildren, Tara, Dale, Matthew, Glen, and Leah; and his great-grandchildren, Sadie, Evan, Katie, Aranea, and Josie. A private Funeral Service is being held with Carl’s immediate family. Carl will be remembered as a passionate engineer, a loving husband and father, and a man whose intellect, kindness, and devotion to family left a lasting legacy in the lives of all who knew him. A Tribute to Carl, written by his sister Jan: My brother CARL How do I say goodbye to someone that has always been in my life? He made it easier. Carl called me on August 17, 2025 to tell me goodbye and to say he was ready to pass on and be with Margaret. He was lucid that day and we talked for 45 min. He also called on August 2, 2025 to say hello. Nicole and Steve were with me and we all talked for 46 min. Nicole had the chance to talk with him about her engineering classes. She plans to be a ME (Mechanical Engineer) too. We all enjoyed that call. Both were miracles since Carl had been having verbal and mental issues for over 1 ½ years. I will always cherish those calls. Growing up, Carl was my big brother, my hero. He often babysat Walt and I as we grew up. Made a bookcase for our room and put up with both of us!! He would sit at the piano with me and sing his college songs. Later at Fox Run, he joined the men’s choir. He did love to sing. He was still singing in his room in Dec, 2025, when all else failed him. My fond memories of Carl Christmas with Carl and Margaret, the best times!! They went all-out to make them wonderful for us all. Carl and Margaret bought me my first beer. They took me to the casino on the Lakes, when I turned 18, which was legal age in WI. The Everly Bros. were playing that night!! On one of our Crystal River trips Carl & Margaret boat flipped over. Margaret came up sitting on the bottom and looking for Carl. Suddenly she flew in the air and up came Carl. She had been sitting on him!! Our cottage on Long Lake was family built. One summer in college, Carl stayed there and helped install the upper floor and the picture windows, he was volunteered!! M & C often came out to see me when he first retired. We had great times traveling around CA. Toured an Aircraft carrier in San Diego, drove the I HWY to Hearst Castle and up to San Francisco. They were great fun except when Carl broke his leg near Fort Bragg CA and Margaret had to drive all the way back to Detroit. Tough on both of them. Carl held over 30 patents for various seating in autos of all types. Yet he was both humble and proud of that. Many are displayed in Fox Run den. Carl had challenges in his life, but he faced them, complained little and met them all with strength and courage. I love you, Carl.

Carl John Holdampf

April 24, 1928 - January 9, 2026