A visionary leader.
Few names in civil engineering are more respected and recognized than Franz Morsches. His remarkable tenure as president of Jones & Henry Engineering, which began in 1985 and lasted through 1995, marked a significant period of growth and innovation for the firm. Today, as we celebrate our 100th anniversary, we honor not only his professional contributions but also the profound impact he made on those around him.
Franz Morsches was born on January 13, 1936, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where his incredible journey began. After graduating from Central Catholic High School, he pursued a degree in Civil Engineering at Purdue University, earning his BSCE in 1958. Franz then completed his Master’s of Engineering at the University of Toledo. His academic achievements were just the start of a remarkable career that would span more than four decades at Jones & Henry Engineering.
Taking the reins as president following Harold Kelley’s retirement, Franz expertly guided the firm into a new era. Under his leadership, the company expanded its operations into Indiana, opening a new office in Fort Wayne—a move that demonstrated his commitment to growth and innovation. His strategic vision helped cement Jones & Henry’s reputation as a leader in the civil engineering industry during a transformative period.
Franz’s work was characterized not merely by professional excellence but also by a deep dedication to his community. Specializing in municipal, water resource, and sanitary engineering projects, he made a substantial impact by improving infrastructure and resources for countless families and neighborhoods. For Franz, engineering was about more than technical designs; it was about cultivating a brighter future for the communities he served.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Franz was a devoted husband and family man. He cherished the time spent with his wife, Mary Ann Kohlbacher, whom he married shortly after graduating in 1958. Together, they nurtured a loving family of six children and shared a beautiful partnership that spanned 65 incredible years. Their unwavering faith and commitment to one another shone brightly in their active involvement at Gesu Church, where Franz served as a Eucharistic minister and volunteered with the St. Vincent De Paul Society.
Franz was also known for his love of fishing and enjoying family vacations, particularly the cherished beach reunions that brought his loved ones together. Most Saturdays found him cheering enthusiastically for his beloved Purdue Boilermakers and the Detroit Tigers, and passionately supporting his children in all their athletic endeavors.
Franz passed away peacefully on August 27, 2023, at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, love, and service. His remarkable contributions to Jones & Henry Engineering and his commitment to community service will long be remembered. As we honor the memory of Franz Morsches, we celebrate a life beautifully lived—one that embodied dedication, family, and community. His spirit will undoubtedly inspire both current and future generations in the engineering field and beyond.
A legacy of leadership.
Strong leadership has significantly influenced our growth during our first 100 years.
