Elisabeth Sophie Synkelma

HURLEY, Wis. — Elisabeth Sophie Synkelma, 86, of Margaret St., Ironwood, Mich., died Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2016, in Hurley.

She was born Aug. 7, 1930, in Straubing, Germany, the daughter of the late Otto and Kathrina (Nussbaum) Roth.

She attended school in Straubing, Germany and made her career as a beautician, employed from 1949 to 1952. She was married to the love of her life, Reuben H. Synkelma, on May 16, 1952, at a Military Air Base Army Chapel, by Major Juliano. Together they moved to Ironwood, where she was a homemaker and very much loved her home, gardening, canning, snowmobiling, water skiing, swimming and extensive traveling. She was member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ironwood.

Elisabeth embraced her German traditions and had many German friends in the local area.

Elizabeth loved her flower garden and her sunroom where she kept many plants year-round. She especially enjoyed her morning coffee with Reuben as they sat together and enjoyed the animals in the garden in their yard.

She is survived by her husband, Reuben; a sister, Hulda of Straubing, Germany; and a cousin, Rudy Gruber of New Jersey, who was like a brother to her. Also surviving are many relatives, nieces and nephews, including, Jim (Mary) Synkelma of Ringle.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Otto, Xavier and Alfons; and her sister, Katherin.

A private memorial service will be held at the Ketola-Burla Funeral Home in Ironwood on Saturday, Nov. 26, with Rev. Kay Richter officiating. Inurnment will be in the Riverside Cemetery in Ironwood.

Memorials contributions may be made to the HOPE Animal Shelter.

The family would like to thank the Villa Maria Health and Rehabilitation Center, Amery, the staff at Aspirus Grand View Hospital, and the UPCAP unit.

Range Funeral Service and Crematory, Ketola-Burla Funeral Home of Ironwood is assisting the family with arrangements. To send on line condolences, visit us at rangefuneralservices.com.