Heinz Christoff Kahl, 85, of 1 Brookline Rd., Niantic, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2009, with his family at his side.

Heinz was born in Hartford on Aug. 25, 1924, to Paul and Dora Kahl, who emigrated from Germany to the United States in 1924.  He married Lillian (Lee) DeFelice on Jan. 24, 1948, in St. Michael's Church in Hartford.

Mr. Kahl joined the U.S. Army in 1943, and received the Silver Star and Purple Heart for acts of bravery in the 3rd wave of the Normandy Invasion.  On June 6, 1944, he had to negotiate a mine field to retrieve his lieutenant who had been wounded.  During this time, Heinz was wounded while carrying the lieutenant to safety.

He was a past commander of the Niantic VFW Post 5849.  He enjoyed gardening and woodworking, and was known for his easy-going, fun-loving demeanor.  He was quick-witted with a great sense of humor.

In addition to his wife of 61 years, he is survived by his four children, Richard P. Kahl of Old Lyme, Robert C. Kahl and his wife, Karen, of Groton, Debra J. Riggs and her partner, Thomas McDermott, of New London, Doreen A. Moltz and her husband, David, of Waterford.  He is survived by his sister, Shirley Discipio and her husband, Fred, of Old Lyme.  He also leaves behind seven grandchildren, Kristen Kahl and her husband, Jack Schlechtweg, Merin and Jesse Benware, Ryan, Carissa, Dillon, Zoe and Julia; and a great-granddaughter, Aviyana.

A Memorial Service will be conducted at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 21, at the Thomas L. Neilan & Sons East Lyme Funeral Home, 48 Grand St., Niantic.  There are no calling hours.  Visit www.neilanfuneralhome.com for directions or to sign the family's online guestbook.