Hans Kronawetter MD

Hans Kronawetter, M.D., died peacefully in Ketchum, Idaho on April 8, 2016 of natural causes. He was 88.

Hans was born on September 17, 1927 in Sierning, Austria to Leopold Kronawetter and Katharina Hackl. Hans grew up in the Austrian mountains on a small farm where he learned the value of hard work and responsibility. He carried these ethics into his work and throughout his life.

He graduated in 1951 from the University of Innsbruck with a degree in medicine and sports. He also completed his training as a national certified ski instructor under Stefan Kruckenhauser in St. Anton Austria. He pursued his medical career in the emergency rooms of many hospitals throughout Austria. He first met his loving wife Elisabeth in Vienna, Austria and they later married on July 22, 1952 at the Poestlingberg Church near Linz, Austria.


In 1953 he traveled to the United States to Madison, Wisconsin where he completed his internship. Thereafter he specialized in the field of urology at the University of Iowa and remained on the staff for one year.

In 1959 Hans moved to Olympia, Washington where he established a private urology practice and operated in the St. Peters Hospital. Later he had much influence on building the new St. Peters Hospital. There he was chief of staff for many years and the 7th floor is dedicated in his name. In addition he built the medical resource center allowing more doctors to practice in Olympia, which resulted in significantly improved health care in Thurston County and the surrounding areas.

Together with his wife Elisabeth he raised seven children. His big family of children are now spread throughout the western United States and back to his roots in Austria.

Included in his busy professional life and caring for his children Hans enjoyed many hobbies such as downhill skiing, water skiing, sailing and hiking. Being a member of the Rotary Club he welcomed many exchange students into our household from all over the world helping to shape their future.

Hans was a brilliant, keen thinker and had a deep passion for history which he shared in many of the stories he told. He retired in Sun Valley where he would continue his love for family and friends, skiing, hiking, and the outdoors. He continued reading avidly, worldwide current events, politics, history and his love for staying current in the medical field. Throughout his life he spent much time with his dogs , especially his favorite breed Rottweiler.

He is survived by his loving and supportive wife Elisabeth Kronawetter their seven children Hans, Eva, Toni, Katharina, Elizabeth, Matthias and Christina. He also is survived by 12 grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Special thanks to Hospice, the wonderful nursing staff at St. Lukes Wood River Hospital, and all of the family friends for their concern and support.

A memorial service will be held at Our Lady of the Snows Catholic Church in Ketchum Idaho on April 13 at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of the Wood River Valley, Po Box 4320, Ketchum, ID 83340.. Following the memorial service the graveside service will be family members only.