Marianne Heukrodt

Marianne Heukrodt, 89, passed away March 7, 2019. She resided in Seal Beach, California at the time of her passing.

Marianne Heukrodt, daughter of Gerhard and Friederike Emmerichs, was born on October 12, 1929 in Essen, Germany. She grew up in war torn Germany in the 1930s and 40s, hearing bombs as she went to sleep and uncertain of what her future held as a child. Fortunately she was able to leave that traumatic time behind as she immigrated to the United States, with her then husband Alfred Peyinghaus and son Andre. They moved to Southern California in 1959 and began a new life as a family in their new country.

After many years of marriage, Alfred and Marianne divorced and she was forced to raise Andre as a single mother. Eventually love led her to a man named Elmer Heukrodt, whom she married in 1971. Elmer was a strong-willed and principled man who worked for the Los Angeles Times and gave Marianne a good life and partnership. They lived for many years in Cerritos, Ca spending time with family and friends playing cards, going to dinners, and maintaining their beautiful garden and home. Elmer brought a family of his own into the fold with his 3 daughters Karen (deceased), Linda (deceased), and Debbie. Eventually Andre and his then wife Safia gave birth to Marianne's only grandchild, Osman, in October of 1991. Grandmother doted over her Grandson and they developed a unique and special bond that would carry on throughout the rest of her life.

Marianne was widowed on November 5th, 2000 and again had to adjust to a new way of life, this time living alone in Seal Beach, California at Leisure World. Yet again Marianne showed her resilience making many friends, taking bus trips to the Casino, and taking part in educational classes that were offered by her new community. She was a member of her local Catholic Church and had a strong belief in God to help guide her throughout her life.

For many years she enjoyed her health and independence while enjoying the frequent visits and calls from both her son Andre, and grandson Osman and his growing family. Marianne's attention and affection in her last years were directed towards her great-grandchildren as they took trips to visit her from Florida and videoed with her on weekends so they could see and talk to their "Oma". She never forgot a birthday, special event, or moment and was always the first to send packages on holidays and anniversaries.

Marianne lived a truly blessed life and positively impacted all whom she came into contact with. We will always hold her care, concern, and love in our hearts and her memory will not fade away from those that loved her.

Marianne is survived by her brother Manfred, her only son Andre, her Grandson Osman and his wife Lauren and their 4 children - Kayla (7), Ariya (5), Eden Marianne (4), and Jackson (born 1/6/2019). Arrangements are under the direction of Forest Lawn, Cypress, California.