Maria Selma Oehm

Maria Selma Oehm CARLSBAD -- Maria Selma Oehm died on Tuesday, October 26, 2010 in Carlsbad, where she had lived for almost seven years. Maria was born Maria Selma Decker on July 4, 1911 in Thalheim, Germany, into a Christian atmosphere and upbringing. She met Alfred Gustav Oehm during her teenage years in a church setting. They were married on December 4, 1933, and shortly afterward, immigrated to the United States by steamship. By December of 1937, Maria and Alfred had three children, Rudy (wife Marge), Marianne (husband John), and Raymond (wife Ruth), whom they reared in a Christian setting through the years. Both Alfred and Maria studied English and became naturalized citizens. Maria also studied to receive a high school diploma and later attended Bible College extension classes. Maria taught Sunday school for a number of years and also was a counselor at Christian summer camps. She baby-sat not only grandchildren, but great-grandchildren as well! Maria really enjoyed and was proud of her job driving a school bus, which she did for ten years. Her husband of almost 52 years died in 1985. They have eight grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Maria was greatly admired by both family and friends for her endurance, faithfulness, generosity, hospitality, prayers, and especially her gratefulness. Even in declining health and fading memory, she would surprise visitors with the words, "Much to be thankful for." Heaven is now richer with a most remarkable saint of God. A celebration of her life will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, November 13, at Coastline Community Church in Carlsbad. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be given to Campus Crusade for Christ or Young Life. Sign the Guest Book online obits.nctimes.com