Gertrud Kohlmeier

Gertrud Kohlmeier was born in Celle, Germany on November 22, 1930 to Albert and Gertrud (Maass) Brammer. She grew up on a farm in a small village in northern Germany called Kallenbrock, alongside her three siblings. Farm life was difficult in those days, especially during the war, but it was rewarding as well, living closer to nature in a picturesque rural landscape dotted with forests and streams. Her life changed dramatically when Carl came into her life. They formally met when Carl, his brother and his mother were on a European tour including a visit to Germany from the United States. On August 4, 1955, she married Carl in Kallenbrock, Germany. They celebrated their union in a double wedding, with Carl’s brother, Martin, marrying Gertrud’s sister, Margaret. Both newlywed couples moved to the United States, with Gertrud and Carl eventually settling in Omaha, Nebraska. They also lived in California and Missouri for several years before Gertrud moved back to Nebraska. Throughout her life, Gertrud enjoyed taking trips with Carl all over the world. She was very social, and enjoyed time spent with family and friends; there are many fond family memories of New Years Eve parties spent with Gertrud. She enjoyed reading, traveling, listening to classical music, and expressing her creativity with paintings. Gertrud also loved to garden, growing many herbs and vegetables, which she used in her cooking. She was an excellent cook, not just with traditional German food, but with cuisines from many different cultures. She had a special talent in baking bread especially the types she grew up with in Germany. Since she spent so much time preparing delicious meals, one of her biggest pet peeves was understandably when someone was late to dinner. She would let you know if you were late! Gertrud will be remembered as a wonderful cook, beloved family member, and fond friend to so many people she had in her life. Her kind and loving demeanor will always be cherished by those who knew her. We will miss her so much! Gertrud was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Carl; and siblings, Renate and Margaret. Sadly, the day after Gertrud’s death, her younger brother, Herman, passed away in Germany. She is survived by her nieces and nephew: Cornelia, Annette, Ina, Maike and Ron. Memorials in her name to may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Gertrud Kohlmeier

November 22, 1930 - March 31, 2024