GROVELAND - Heinz H. Altherr, 84, died on December 17, 2014 at his home in Groveland, Massachusetts. He fought cancer since May of last year. He was born in Switzerland in April of 1930. He immigrated to the United States in 1958, went to night school, and earned a masters-of-science degree in mechanical engineering from New York University.

Heinz married his wife, Traudel, in 1964 and then moved to New Jersey. He worked as a mechanical engineer for Curtis Wright and then took employment with the Aircraft Engine Division of General Electric located in Lynn, Massachusetts.

Heinz was an active volunteer for Boy Scout Troop 126 in Boxford for a number of years and served as Troop Leader. He donated blood regularly to the American Red Cross and earned the 3-gallon donor pin.

Heinz enjoyed outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain climbing, skiing, and sailing. He also enjoyed woodworking and spent many years building a log cabin in Maine. In his later years he enjoyed building model airplanes and sailboats.

He is survived by his wife Traudel; children Doris Altherr, Peter Altherr and wife Mary Lou and Thomas Altherr; grandchildren, Daniella and Marc; sister Rosemary Egger and husband Stephan; two nephews. Heinz was predeceased by his brother Ernst.

Contributions in Heinz's memory can be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, www.pancan.org , (877) 272-6226.