ERIKA ESTIS

1922 - 2023

ESTIS--Erika E. 1922-2023. Sadly we inform you of the passing of Erika Estis on January 14, 2023. Erika died peacefully at home, in the embrace of her loved ones. Predeceased by her husband, Samuel Estis, she is survived by a growing family and legions of friends. Children Denise, Kim and Wayne. Beloved sons-in-law Gary and Marty, and daughter-in-law Diane. Grandchildren Dena (Thaddeus), Janna (Michael), Adam (Leora), Emily (Killian), Rebecca (Ian), Ana (Russ) and Gabriel. Great- grandchildren Samantha, Odessa, Oliver, Logan, Ezra, Tui, Ari, Kea, and another on the way, baby boy O'Brien. Born in Hamburg, Germany to Irma and Paul Freundlich, Erika left her home on the Kindertransport in December, 1938, weeks after her 16th birthday and Kristallnacht. Her parents moved heaven and earth to provide for her safety while they remained, perishing at Auschwitz. We know that her lessons are enshrined in the hearts and souls of those she reached, and will reach in the future as a result of her appearance in the film My Knees Were Jumping, and archived interviews recorded in written and video form, and presentations to community and school groups. During this time of profound grief, we hope and expect her memory to shine as a beacon both for those in need and for those with the ability to answer a call for help. She will be missed but remembered. Private funeral and Shiva. A memorial to be announced in the Spring. Contributions may be made to a fund established in Erika's name at Temple Beth Shalom, Hastings-on-Hudson, NY.