Celebration of life held for 1991 Oktoberfest Festmaster Karl Friedline

LA CROSSE (WKBT) -- A celebration of life was held in La Crosse Tuesday.

94-year-old Karl Friedline of Onalaska, known as the "epitome of gemütlichkeit," passed away.

Friedline was best known as the 1991 Oktoberfest Festmaster and his musical skills he used to sing the German national anthem during festivals.

He was in multiple music groups and has lived in the La Crosse area since 1965.

According to friends and loved ones, he was known for being active in the church and community.

"He became a legend into himself, with everything he got himself involved in. Whether it was his church, or the Oktoberfest, or his playing of his music and the different bands that he played in, he was a totally animated, unbelievable individual." said Mary Rohrei, Friedline's neighbor.

Friends also say he will be missed dearly by everyone but that he left behind history and words to live by.

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