Nov. 14, 1929 – June 26, 2021
After a spirited life of adventure Luise Lydia Valeska Lichtenberg died peacefully at home. Born in the historic town of Lemgo, Germany, Luise met and married Wilhelm Lichtenberg after World War Two. Shortly thereafter they emigrated to start a new life and family. Landing on the shores of New York with only $70, Luise and Willie made their way to Connecticut and settled in Greenwich.
A curious and creative soul, Luise’s formal education was constrained by the conditions and customs of the time. This meant that she had to seek out the knowledge and skills to express her many talents. Luise excelled in the decorative arts. She tailored her daughters’ clothes including winter coats. The quality of her cooking and the ability to make gravy from the barest of drippings was second to none. Many neighbors and colleagues waited annually for her homemade Christmas stollen. In later years she ventured into wool dying and carpet making, etching, and Navajo rug weaving. She benefited from a green thumb. Everyone appreciated her unique sense of style.
In retirement Luise and Willie ventured out, traveling in a motorcoach to all contiguous U.S. States, Canadian provinces and territories, and even all the way to the Arctic Circle! On this journey they took their time, lingering and learning in areas that sparked their imaginations. After Willie’s death in 2009, Luise took to vigorously enjoying her independence. She audited university classes, traveled, and generously shared her many interests with others. Her last adventure occurred in early March when she confidently left home in Shelton and traveled by bus to New Haven, unaware that her absence triggered a statewide Silver Alert.
All five daughters attended to her care during the final months. The family is especially grateful for the dedicated care and companionship provided by Robin Berlone. On the occasion of her ninetieth birthday, close family and friends celebrated Luise’s life and fellowship. She is survived by five daughters, seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
