Hedda Kornfeld Obituary

Dr. Hedda Kornfeld

11/26/1913 - 7/26/2015

Dr. Hedda Kornfeld passed away surrounded by her loved ones. Hedda was preceded in passing by her husband of sixty two years John Kornfeld and their son Henry Kornfeld. Hedda is survived by her loving daughter, Jeannie Simon ( Bobby), and her three grandchildren, Dana Paskowitz (Michael), Joanie Sears, (Michael) and Kenny Simon (Starr). Additionally, Hedda has been surrounded by her seven loving great granddaughters and one great grandson.
Hedda, John and their son Henry were survivors of the Holocaust and their lives have been documented by The Shoah Visual History Foundation.
Hedda received her medical degree from the University of Vienna in December of 1931 and her class was the last class that allowed Jews to graduate prior to the War.
Hedda's amazing mind, sense of humor and ability to remember and tell jokes provided a platform for her to practice medicine. While working as a party dishwasher and server, a number of physicians , having learned that Hedda was a licensed physician in Europe, sponsored her to complete an internship and residence at Childrens Hospital in San Francisco. Following her examinations she took over a Pediatric practice located at 450 Sutter St. in San Francisco. After the birth of her daughter Jeannie, Hedda worked as a Public Health physician and eventually retired from active practice and volunteered as a health physician at Health center #1 in the Castro District. Her Medical career spanned a course of 62 years.
John and Hedda moved to Villa Marin in April of 1994. They enjoyed retirement and filled their time listening to the Giants and the 49ers. They also loved playing paddle tennis, maintaining a strong relationship with the Democratic Party. On Wednesdays, Hedda could be found providing "current events" to patients in the Skilled Nursing Facility. Hedda loved watching their children, grand children and great children develop into productive and loving individuals.
During the last year of Hedda's life she was very fortunate to have been cared for by five amazing women: Margie, Brigette, Josephine, Edna and Anita.
Contributions in memory of Hedda Kornfeld can be donated to: Bay Area Jewish Healing Center. 2530 Taraval Street, Suite 202, San Francisco, Calif. 94116 or Hospice by the Bay, 17 E Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Larkspur, Calif., 94939.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Jul. 28 to Jul. 29, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Hedda Kornfeld

10 Entries

Sue Anderson

July 23, 2021

I loved knowing Hedda through my mom, Emilie Lose, who was good friends with Hedda at Villa Marin. Fun to watch them discuss whatever topic was being discussed.

Sue Anderson

July 23, 2020

I only knew Hedda a little, but my mom and Hedda were fast friends. Mom thought the world of Hedda and enjoyed lots if time together. Maybe even now as they both left this planet. Truly easy to remember Hedda. So bright and fun to be around

September 22, 2019

I worked at Villa Marin and talked with Hedda a lot. One memory I have is talking with her about the Holocaust I promised her I would make sure my children and grandchildren would never forget history. I share her story of her escape often. She was a remarkable woman. Wendy Newgren.

July 23, 2019

Seeing this remembrance post after thinking of Hedda these past few days. I knew Hedda through my mom, Emilie, who lived in same retirement community as Hedda. They were friends. I loved talking with Hedda as she was so knowledgeable and full of life. I hope she and my mom are having a great time now. Thanks, Sue Anderson

August 5, 2015

Dear Jeannie, sorry to read about your Mom's passing. I've Been living in England for the past 30 yrs. brought back memories of 31st Ave. she gave me my 1st polio shot at Lawton School! Also remember all the Birthday parties she organised when we were kids! Fun times!

Take care, Frances Gledhill (nee Oldham)

July 30, 2015

Dear Jeanne and Bobby,
It was such a pleasure knowing your mother and her great sense of humor
While at Villa Marin. What a great family you were to her. My best wishes.
Marie Porti

July 29, 2015

Dear Jeannie and Bobby,
I cannot believe life will be the same without your mother.We were friends and working partners for over fifty years. Our frequent phone calls were always filled with jokes and nostalgia about our lives and work. Tears now and memories later, Helen Lazorisak

July 29, 2015

Dear Jeanne and Bobbi: So sorry to hear of the passing of your mom. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. She was a true lady.
Angela(now in Grass Valley)

July 29, 2015

Dear Hedda, You were the best friend to my mom, Emilie Lose. She so loved and respected you and enjoyed your time together at the Villa. Hope you both are reminiscing together now. Go in peace, Sue Anderson

Dennis and Eileen Aicardi

July 28, 2015

Dear Jeannie, Your Mother was an amazing woman and heartfelt person full of life and kindness. I will always have fond memories of her. Much love to you and your family.

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