Elfriede K. Bernard

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Menands - Elfriede Katharina (Hochapfel) Bernard
Elfriede entered into eternal life on her birthday, 2-24-2024, at The Kingsway Arms Nursing Center with her beloved son David by her side. Elfriede, who was affectionately known as "Oma", was 94 years young.

Elfriede was born February 24, 1930 the daughter of the late Minna and August Hochapfel. She grew up in Kassel, Germany before arriving in the United States in December of 1956. She obtained her U.S. citizenship in 1963, an accomplishment she was very proud of. She worked locally for many years at Keegan's Liquor in Menands. She later worked for the Office of General Services until retiring in 1993.

Elfriede resided in Menands, NY for 66 years before relocating to Niskayuna to be lovingly cared for by her son David and grandson Nicholas. Surviving the war in Europe as an adolescent and later raising her sons were just two examples of her life filled with strength and perseverance. She faithfully studied and enjoyed her daily cryptoquips in addition to The German Times, The Times Union and various other magazines. She actively engaged in current events and brought an interesting and charming European perspective to political debates.

Elfriede is survived by her two sons, Mitchell W. Bernard of Gloversville and David W. Bernard of Niskayuna; four grandchildren, Frank JG Bernard, Rebecca (Michael) Lalli, Nicholas and Michael Bernard; two great-grandsons, Hank and Reggie Lalli. She has several relatives in Germany including Michael Hochapfel. She also leaves behind her forever friend Fran Bernard.

Elfriede is predeceased by her three brothers Heinrich, Alfred and Walter Hochapfel.

Family and friends are invited to attend visitation hours from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 181 Troy Schenectady Rd., Watervliet, New York on Friday March 1, 2024 . A funeral service will be held Saturday March 2, 2024 at 10:00 am at New Comer Cremations & Funerals. Interment will follow the service at Albany Rural Cemetery, Menands, New York.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made in Elfriede Bernard's name to St Jude Children's Hospital, 262 Danny Tomas Place, Memphis TN 38105

The family would like to thank the entire staff at Kingsway Arms Nursing Home for the outstanding care they provided.

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