Elfrieda Hesse's Obituary
Elfrieda Hesse passed away on October 8th at 97 years old. She is survived by daughter Marilyn and son George and his wife Dawn, as well as 7 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
Elfrieda was born in Munich, Germany on June 3, 1925. She grew up through the Great Depression and WWII in Germany and met her late-husband Herman during the American occupation of Germany after the war. She moved to Canada and then with the sponsorship of his family she was able to immigrate the United States where they were married in 1955. She later became an American citizen in 1958.
She spent the rest of her life in Escondido, CA, raising her children and enjoying the lives of her grandchildren. She was an integral part of the lives of her grandchildren, attending sporting events, school plays, graduations, and creating a home where they loved to spend their time. During the summer, her grandchildren were often found at her home enjoying the pool and celebrating birthdays. Celebrating Christmas Eve at her house became a long-standing tradition that grew as her grandchildren had children of their own.
She was a strong Christian, always attending church every week until her mobility prevented her. As a child, she was confirmed in the Lutheran Church in Germany when she was 13 years old. For years she could be found sitting with her son and his family as they went to church together in Escondido. In later years she returned to the Lutheran Church and was supported by Lutheran Community Church and Pastor Bob Hiller until she passed away.
She was a beloved “Oma” and is sincerely missed by her family and the many friends who love her.
There will be an impromptu graveside service at Oak Hill Cemetery in Escondido on November 5 at 10am.
What’s your fondest memory of Elfrieda?
What’s a lesson you learned from Elfrieda?
Share a story where Elfrieda's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Elfrieda you’ll never forget.
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