Elfriede Anna Englehart

ELFRIEDE ANNA ENGLEHART

     Elfriede A. Englehart, 97, of Deford died Sunday, July 20, 2025 in Meadow Lane Assisted Living of Bad Axe. She was born December 9, 1927 in Handschuhsheim, Germany. Elfriede married Lawrence Arthur Englehart on January 26, 1948 in the Novesta Church of Christ Parsonage. He died December 26, 2010.

     Elfriede grew up in the hills of Western Germany, where she loved family outings with her brothers and sister, climbing mountains to drink from fresh springs, swimming across the Neckar River, and visiting Heidelberg Schloss on Sundays after church. Her best friend, Ruth, from kindergarten, was her constant companion. As a young woman, Elfriede loved to dance and was always social, going out evenings with Ruth.

     She worked as an apprentice in a grocery store, where her warm spirit shone. Through friends, she met her husband and instantly fell in love, but they waited over two years, staying devoted despite the distance, until she immigrated to the United States to marry him and start their family. From there, Elfriede became an amazing cook, known for her German dishes, always wanting to feed everyone, even if they were full—a running family joke.

     She served her church tirelessly, and cooked for every funeral and luncheon with love and care. Quick-witted and funny, she cheered for her Detroit Tigers, though she’d sigh when they struggled. A fierce game-player, Elfriede brought energy to every table. She made friends everywhere, shining in her quilting club, children’s church, and supporting countless families in need. A devoted mother, she poured love into raising her kids and adoring her grandkids. Her marriage was a true partnership. Elfriede leaves a legacy of love, laughter, and generosity. She was a kind, caring soul who touched many lives.

     Elfriede is survived by her sons: Lawrence Englehart of Vermontville, Ron (Catherine) Englehart of Strasburg. Colorado; Kevin (Michelle) Englehart of Sand Point; grandchildren: Erin (Matt) Welker, Ben (Lindee) Englehart, Will (Jessica) Englehart, Andrew (Sarah) Englehart, Audrey Tetreau, James Englehart; great grandchildren: Zachary, Ella, Lilah, Lucy, Eli, Silas, Ryan, Emily, Amelia; many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband and infant children: Gerald Arthur Englehart, Johanna Ruth Englehart; her siblings.

     Funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 31, 2025 in Novesta Church of Christ, Cass City with Brad Speirs officiating. Interment in Novesta Township Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial to Elfriede’s favorite charity, March of Dimes or to Novesta Church of Christ, Cass City.

Visitation: 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 30, 2025 in Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City

10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Thursday, July 31, 2025 in Novesta Church of Christ, Cass City