Lotte Gaa

Lotte Blum Gaa, affectionately known as "Oma", 96, of Elmsford NY passed away peacefully on June 30, 2025.

Lotte was born on March 21, 1929 in Mannheim, Germany to Albert Blum and Josefine Birkenmaier, and was the oldest sister to brothers Walter and Werner.

Lotte married her husband Manfred Gaa in 1950 in post war Germany. Seeking a better life, Lotte and Manfred immigrated having only each other to Montreal, Canada in 1951 and then to Yonkers NY, USA in 1957. After arriving in the USA, Lotte and Manfred then had their beloved son Perry.

Those who knew Lotte would describe her as social, resilient, confident, loving, and informed. These traits all helped her create a life to be proud of, as everything she had after 96 years was a result of her own doing - assimilating to a new language and culture without relatives nearby.

Lotte established a career filled with lasting relationships as a Procurement Specialist at Insilco. She was an active member of the Edelweiss Social Club of White Plains, and creator of the "Tuesday Sewing Club" with her closest friends that lasted decades.

But Lotte's greatest joy in life was her family, and her marriage with Manfred and role as Oma. Lotte and Manfred traveled America and experienced all of the joys and wonders of this country they now called home. Her family (Perry and wife Nancy, grandson Harrison and wife Elizabeth, and granddaughter Emily, and nephew Bernie) were the ones she most enjoyed spending time with and filled her heart with love. And recently, you could not see Lotte without also seeing pictures of her great-grandchildren, Natalie and Owen.

Lotte's mind remained sharp, living on her own in the house she made with Manfred (who predeceased her in 2009) until her final days. Even in her 90's, Lotte could be found texting her grandkids, emailing friends, knitting and crocheting, and remaining an avid reader.

Lotte's life was a story of the American Dream. If you had the good fortune of meeting Lotte, she had a unique way of leaving an impression. As she now rejoins Manfred, may we remember the example she set and cherish the memories from the beautiful life she lived.

Family will gather for a private service at a later date to celebrate her life. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Calvary Hospital (Bronx, NY) would be appreciated.