Else B. (Gottfried) Wellhoefer

Else Wellhoefer (née Gottfried), of Bogota, NJ, passed away on August 11, 2021.

Else was predeceased by her loving husband of over 50 years, Karl.  She is survived by her dedicated children, Martin Wellhoefer, of Ringwood, NJ, and his partner, Lisa, and Lore Valcarcel, of River Edge, NJ, and her husband, Orlando; and grandchildren, Marcus (wife Sharon), Justin (partner Maura), and Ryan (wife Amanda); and great-grandchildren, William and Lily; and her cat, Georgie.

Else was born on January 2, 1927 in Ansbach, Germany. Overcoming a difficult childhood, that included the loss of her mother at the age of three, as well as growing up in Germany during World War II, she always said that her life started when she met her husband, Karl.  Arriving in the United States in 1952, Karl and Else created a simple, and loving life together in Bogota, NJ. Karl and Else raised two children, Martin and Lore, and instilled values of kindness and generosity within them. Else was a dedicated and loving mother towards Martin and Lore and their admiration and love was reciprocated.  Martin and Lore were dedicated to giving Else the best care in her last months.

Fondly known as “Oma”, Else was beloved and adored by many but especially by her son-in-law, Orlando, grandchildren, Marcus, Justin, and Ryan, and “adopted” daughter, Santa Crisall.

Else welcomed her granddaughters-in-law, Sharon, Maura, and Amanda into the family with love and fondness. She would often state to her grandchildren how lucky they were to have great spouses. Else also enjoyed spending time with her great-grandchildren, William and Lily.

Else enjoyed her cat, Georgie, gardening, world history, crocheting, coffee and cake, and, above all, spending time with her family.  She could stop her grandsons from squabbling by simply calling out a European country so they we try to be the first to name its capital city. She had an amazing gift of solving multiplication problems in her head within seconds. The family will celebrate her life and legacy at a future date.  Until then, do an act of kindness in her name.