Obituary of Elfriede Loeschinger

Obituary of Elfriede Loeschinger

In Loving Memory of Mrs. Elfriede Loeschinger

  September 14, 1927 – February 3, 2026

Mrs. Elfriede Loeschinger lived a life defined by resilience, devotion, and a quiet, enduring strength that touched everyone who knew her. Born in Murau, Austria, she grew up in a world shaped by hardship, yet she carried forward a spirit of hope, generosity, and steadfast love.

At fourteen, she moved to Salzburg to work in a cake and pastry shop, helping support her family during difficult times. It was there that she met Josef, the man who would become her beloved husband and lifelong partner. They married in 1944, building a life grounded in faith, perseverance, and deep affection.

Together they journeyed across continents—from Austria to Canada, and finally to the United States—seeking opportunity and stability for their growing family. Through every transition, Elfriede remained the heart of the home, creating warmth, comfort, and joy wherever she went.

She raised three children—Brigitte, Joseph, and Catharine—with unwavering devotion. Even as she cared for her family, she extended her kindness outward, volunteering to support immigrants and others in need. Her service through the Kolping Society, the Salvation Army, and the Brooklyn Knaben und Mädchen Chor left a lasting imprint on her community. She later became the Chor’s first female President, a role she fulfilled with grace and dedication.

Elfriede’s gifts were many. She was an exceptional baker and a talented cook, sharing her creations generously with family, friends, neighbors, and even strangers. Her hands were rarely still—crocheting, knitting, sewing, and creating beautiful pieces that brought comfort and joy to countless people. Among her quiet acts of service, she crafted scarves and helmet liners for U.S. troops serving in Afghanistan.

She cherished time with her family, especially lively games of UNO, where her laugh became one of the family’s most treasured sounds. Her Catholic faith remained a guiding light throughout her life, sustained through her years at St. Brigid Church and later St. Matthias Church.

To her family she was Mommy, Mutti, Ama, Oma, Omi and Urli—names that reflect the deep love she nurtured across generations. Her presence was a blessing; her memory is a gift that will endure.

Elfriede is survived by her sister Lore Lippitsch in Austria; her children Brigitte Vogt (Arnold), Joseph Loeschinger (Ingrid), and Catharine Tarnok (Raymond, deceased); her grandchildren Kenneth Vogt (Leigh), Annemarie Killian (Douglas), Katharine McGuire (Edward), Erik Tarnok (Michelle), Kristina Kelly (James), Monika Maglio (John), and Phillip Loeschinger (Lindsey); and sixteen great‑grandchildren: Kailey and Kevin Ormsby; Melissa and John Killian; Raymond and William Tarnok; Charlotte, Juliette, and John Maglio; Eleanora, Cora, and Peter McGuire; Frederick Loeschinger; Kyle and Lincoln Arzberger; and Christopher Kelly.

Her life was long, full, and beautifully lived. She now rests in the loving embrace of God, reunited with her beloved Josef, surrounded by Angels and Saints.