Kristina Stroehlein Gilmer

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Dr. Kristina Stroehlein Gilmer, a devoted mother, accomplished physician, and cherished friend. Kristina lived a life marked by compassion, brilliance, and unwavering love.

Born in Warsaw, Poland, to Jan and Maria Baginski, Kristina was the eldest of four children. Her father was a lawyer, and her mother a dentist. From a young age, Kristina was known for her elegance, intellect, and adventurous spirit. She spent her childhood exploring Poland, enjoying summer vacations in the mountains and along the Baltic Sea, and hiking the Tatra Mountains with her beloved sister, Aldona.

Kristina graduated from the Warsaw Academy of Medicine in 1963, and soon after married her sweetheart, Dr. Zygmund Buzanowski, an obstetrician. Together they practiced medicine in Guinea, offering compassionate care to their patients. In 1968 they immigrated to the United States, eventually settling in Santa Barbara where they joined the University of California School of Medicine. In 1970, they joined the Mayo Clinic, a milestone they cherished deeply. Tragically, Zygmund passed away in 1971.

In 1974, Kristina found love again and married Dr. John Stroehlein. They welcomed their son, John Allen, in 1976 and moved to Houston in 1978, where Kristina continued her career in pathology and John in gastroenterology. Though their marriage ended after over 20 years, Kristina remained devoted to her family.

She later married Dr. Ridg Gilmer, a fellow pathologist, and embraced his large and loving family. In Ridg, Kristina found a loyal and joyful companion. They shared many happy years together until his passing in June 2023.

Kristina's greatest joy was her son, John Allen Stroehlein. She adored watching him grow, participating in his life, and celebrating his accomplishments. She warmly welcomed Melissa as her daughter-in-law and cherished their son, Luke Reid, with deep love and pride.

Outside of her professional life, Kristina was a talented gourmet cook and a passionate investor. She delighted in preparing meals for family and friends, always bringing warmth and elegance to the table.

We extend our deepest gratitude and enduring love to the entire Gilmer family, whose support meant so much to Kristina. Special thanks to her kind neighbors, Marcia and Mike Feldman, and to Kathy. Their presence brought comfort and joy. We are especially grateful to the devoted caregivers (Rachel, Chisom, Gigi, Sheretta, Isatsu, Barabara) who became part of her extended family, and to Margarita-her trusted confidante and constant source of wisdom-whose care and companionship were truly invaluable.

Kristina is lovingly remembered by her son, John Allen Stroehlein and daughter-in-law, Melissa Reid. She was a proud grandmother to Luke Reid Stroehlein.

She is also survived by her devoted siblings: Dr. Aldona Siczek of Boulder, CO., Leif Baginski of Stockholm and Maria Baginska-Wierzbowska of Warsaw. She is also remembered by family members Dr. Bill Gilmer, Darrell & Dorothy Pearson, Phil & Julie Lahey and Liz Gilmer as well as all the grandchildren. She leaves behind three cherished nieces: Katarzyna Wierzbowska - Brzywczy, Linda Baginska, Sylwia Baginski, and nephew Konrad Baginski.

Her legacy of love, strength, and grace will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Service arrangements are pending and will be posted to this page soon.