Carl Froehlich passed away unexpectedly July 6 while vacationing with his family in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. He was 63.
Born in Hanford, California, Carl was the oldest child of Erwin and Magdalene Froehlich. He spent his formative years in nearby Corcoran, attending school and working for Gilkey Farms, Inc., during summer and vacation breaks.
While at Corcoran High School, Carl excelled in academics, football, and track and field, where he ran middle distance. Graduating high school in 1970, he was a recipient of a J.G. Boswell Scholarship, going on to attend the University of Southern California. There, he graduated with honors, receiving his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in 1974 and a master’s in civil engineering in 1978.
Carl worked in California for major engineering, construction and consulting firms in the petrochemical, mining and nuclear power industries, taking on assignments around the world. As his work took him to sites across North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East, Carl was known for his intense work ethic and a persistence to find both the root of a problem, and a justifiable basis for a solution. He was a key contributor in both design and implementation roles for mitigation of reactor pressure vessel and piping materials issues, dry fuel storage of nuclear fuel, and analytical evaluations of fracture mechanics. His adaptability, indefatigable spirit, wry humor and congeniality made him a delightful work companion, especially in difficult environments.
Carl retired in 2013, and continued to enjoy golfing, camping, traveling, movies and attending sports events.
Well read, thoughtful and always curious about the human condition, he loved discussing world affairs, and encouraged learning and engagement. Friends and colleagues appreciated his open mindedness and willingness to share any burden. More than anything, he enjoyed his family.
Carl is survived by his wife, Sandra Delvin, his two children, Alexandra and Matthias, his mother. Magdalene, his brother and sister-in-law, Bob and Peggy of Simi Valley, his sister and brother-in-law, Christine and Tom Shippey of Pollock Pines, three nieces and a nephew, and numerous relatives in Germany.
Carl was preceded in death by his father Erwin.
For information on the celebration of life please email chfmemorial@gmail.com.
In lieu of traditional remembrances, the family has requested donations be made to Corcoran High School Scholarship Fund, ATTN: Froehlich Memorial Scholarship, 1520 Patterson Avenue, Corcoran, CA 93212.
