Hedda Gaede Lark

Hedda Gaede Lark died on November 9, 2010 at the age of 85 in her beloved home, surrounded by family. Although Hedda's health had declined in recent years due to a series of strokes, she always took pleasure in life. A longtime resident of Manhattan Beach, Hedda was born in Germany. She came to the United States in 1934 at age 9 as a political refugee, along with the rest of her family. Hedda's early years in the states were spent mostly in New York. She attended Packer Collegiate in Brooklyn, and went on to attend Antioch College, where she met her first husband, Ernest Pritchard. The young couple moved to Southern California, with Ernie attending Cal Tech, and Hedda finishing her studies at U.S.C. Tina and Mark were born of this marriage, which ended in divorce. Hedda married George Lark in 1954, and their daughter, Blanche, was born the following year. Hedda was widowed in 1967, and met Dean Wright, whom she later married, in 1980. Their 30-year loving and faithful partnership brought them joy, adventure and security, centered around their shared families and friends. Hedda worked as an editor, specializing in metaphysical books. In the early stages of her career, she edited the works of Manly P. Hall, a well-known philosopher and writer, and founder of the Philosophical Research Society. Later, she served as editor and reviewer for DeVorss & Co., a pioneering publisher and distributor of metaphysical books. Hedda loved life and people. She also adored her garden, the ocean and music. Guests, friends and family were always welcome in her home. Some stayed for days, others for years. All enjoyed her heartfelt generosity and concern for their well-being. Hedda will be remembered for her kindness, giving nature, broad philosophical perspective, good humor, and humility. Although she always thought of herself as just an ordinary person, the many people whose lives she touched knew otherwise, and will greatly miss this gentle, compassionate soul. Hedda is survived by her husband, Dean; her three children, Tina, Mark and Blanche; her four grandchildren, Todd, Craig, Claire and Will; and her three great-grandchildren, Ava, Maya and Ezra. Please sign the guestbook at www.dailybreeze.com/obits.