Hans Joachim Erdmann

Hans Joachim Erdmann, 82 died Monday January 18th 2016 following a long battle with Alzheimer's at Roanoke Memorial Hospital. He goes to be at peace with his already departed wife Marilyn Erdmann, he leaves behind his son Hans Eric Erdmann daughter in-law Janine Erdmann and daughter Karen Nicholson, along with numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, as well as his sister Karin Paul and husband Norbert . Hans lead an interesting life being born in NYC in September 1933, he left to visit family relatives in Germany shortly before the outbreak of WWII. At the start of the war he was unable to leave Germany and lived through the war with family there, until American troops liberated him in 1945. Upon returning to the US he had to relearn English and start High School in Greenville NY. Graduating top of his class he enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1952. Shortly after his enlistment he was given the opportunity to become a Commissioned Officer first as a Flight Engineer on B36 bombers, then as a Navigator/Bombardier on B52s, serving three tours flying bombing operations in Vietnam. Upon his retirement from the USAF in 1973 he retired to Cassia Florida and worked for the State as a Health Inspector until 1986. At that time he and Marilyn would spend their summers in beautiful Eagle Rock, Virginia and played snow birds until their health would no longer allow them to travel back and forth. His casual nature and strength of will shall be remembered by all that had the chance to know and love him. According to his wishes there will be no formal service but all that knew him are welcome to stop by and pay their respects.