Augusta (Gussie) Aleta Krahn Rosenfeld of Uniondale, NY, passed away January 9th 2017, peacefully into the arms of the Lord surrounded by her family. She was 103 years of age and fought a brave and courageous battle in the midst of a short illness. Born October 8, 1913, in Elm Park, Staten Island, NY. Devoted daughter of the late Carl and Emma (Mathis) Krahn. Beloved wife of the late, Helmut Rosenfeld (deceased 1975). Devoted and loving mom to Shirley and (Frank, deceased), Joan and (Don), and Audrey and (Raymond). Cherished “Oma” to seven-grandchildren. Treasured “Big Oma” to 20 great-grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter and another great-great granddaughter on the way. All of whom she loved dearly. Dear friend, Edward McAlea, was her partner in their latter years from 1978 to 2012, when Ed passed into Heaven. With over thirty years together in deep friendship, his family became a huge part of her life and, therefore, our lives collectively.

Gussie started working at age fifteen, having to quit high school due to family hardship, in lower Manhattan at Standard Accident and then Cities Service which she traveled to via train, ferry and bus. She met the love of her life, Helmut, as a teen. Shortly before she turned 23, they married in the Church of the Good Shepherd; St. Albans, Queens, NY 1936. After her marriage and when a mother, she stayed at home for 18 years caring for her family. For several years she was a Co-leader in the Girl Scouts, which positively influenced many young girls. Returning to work in 1954 to the business field, she found success as an Office Manager at Graphic Magazines Inc., Garden City and later as an Executive Secretary at South Nassau Communities Hospital, Long Beach. When retired, joined a Senior Crafts Club where she made many lovely crafts and ceramics. She made delicious chocolate candy for all family members every Christmas. Later, in her 90’s, she joined a group of wonderful ladies who played cards every week. Gussie was a very social being with a quick sense of humor, sharp mind, and possessed a deep love and acceptance for all people. A natural peacemaker, she brought calmness into all situations, and was a good listener and a great support for family members and friends. She encouraged and appreciated the importance of enduring friendships and said, “you can’t grow and old friend”. Whenever you came to her to talk over a problem you always went away wiser.

She was a devoted wife to her “Helmut” and a devoted mom to her three “girls”. She was the mainstay of our family and the heart of our home. She thoroughly enjoyed her grandchildren through their years of growing up and when married and had children of their own, always kept up with all the family goings on. We all are indeed grateful and thankful to have been blessed by her presence and our lives have been forever changed by her love for each of us. She will be greatly missed Our family is so appreciative and thankful for Dr. Shoenfeld and his staff for their excellent care of Mom these many years. Additionally, the tender, loving care of her aides, Cookie and Snow, provided great peace for her and our family. We thank you all.

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