Elfriede Kathe von Geldern

Elfriede Käthe von Geldern

July 14, 1944 — May 13, 2024

Elfriede K. von Geldern (nee Schramm) of Eberbach, Germany passed away on May 13, 2024 at the age of 79.

Elfriede, a proud Badenserin, was born to parents Jakob Schramm and Mina Menges on July 14, 1944 in Eberbach, Germany. Her energy and love of sports earned her the childhood nickname “Die Biene” (the bee) because she was constantly buzzing about. She immigrated to California in 1965 and initially resided in Paso Robles where she met her next-door neighbor and future husband Charles. It was her laughter, vivacious spirit and her homemade Sauerbraten that had him hooked. For over 50 years Elfriede was a resident of Sacramento.

Elfriede, also known as “Big E”, was a spirited and gregarious person who competed in wrist wrestling and body building when she was younger. If she could have she would have saved every stray rescue dog and was particularly fond of her Miniature Schnauzers.  She loved Elvis, gardening, and never passed up on a good German beer or dancing at the Torch Club . She was a devoted wife, mother, and proud grandmother. Elfriede was a long term resident of River Park where she was actively involved in the River Park Garden Club.  Those who knew Elfriede knew she was tenacious, determined and a generous person who would help anyone in need. Efriede’s tenacity extended to her six-year battle with breast cancer.  

Elfriede is preceded in death by her husband Charles E. von Geldern Jr, her sister Waltraud Ring of Frankfurt, Germany and her parents.  She is survived by her daughter Heidi and her grandson Caleb and many nieces and nephews.