Obituary of William Carl “W.C.” Peinhardt

Early Life and Education

William Carl “W.C.” Peinhardt was born in Cullman, Alabama, and spent his childhood in Johnson’s Crossing. He graduated from Hanceville High School in 1944 and briefly attended Alabama Polytechnic Institute (now Auburn University) before being drafted into the U.S. Army during World War II. After serving in Namur, Belgium, he returned home and completed his education at St. Bernard in Cullman and API, earning a degree in Agricultural Engineering in 1950.

Career

Peinhardt began his career at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, assisting in the testing of German rocket equipment. In 1951, he joined Greif Bros. Corporation in Cullman, where he rose to the position of VP of Engineering before retiring in 1993.

Family and Personal Life

Peinhardt married Dorothea McNutt in 1951. They had six children, who gave them ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Peinhardt was an active member of Christ Lutheran Church and served on the Cullman County Commission on Education. He was also a member of the Hanceville Lion’s Club.

Legacy

Peinhardt passed away on April 20, 2024, at the age of 97. He was surrounded by his family and grandchildren, who cherished memories of tractor rides, bonfires, and the occasional ice cream for breakfast. He is remembered for his deep love of family, his service to his community, and his role in preserving the history of Cullman County through the Peinhardt Living History Farm.

Funeral Arrangements

Visitation and services were held at Christ Lutheran Church in Cullman on April 27, 2024. Interment followed at Hopewell Cemetery in Hanceville.

In Lieu of Flowers

Donations can be made in Peinhardt’s memory to Christ Lutheran Church or the Peinhardt Living History Farm.

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