Erika Sisneros

Erika Sisneros, 91, passed away peacefully in assisted living at Diamond Jane’s in Grantsville, Utah, on Feb. 18, 2016. Erika was born April 4, 1924 in Lodz, Poland. There, she grew up with her sister and enjoyed a youthful life until World War II broke out. She immigrated to Germany to avoid the Russian occupation. In Germany, she met and married her husband Willie Sisneros. She immigrated to the United States after the war and settled in Tooele in 1951 after a brief stay in New Mexico, where she gave birth to her first son, Richard. Shortly thereafter, Erika had two more sons, Charlie and Steve. Erika worked for the United States Government at Dugway, Utah, as an accountant. She retired early. Erika loved the outdoors. She had a green thumb and enjoyed growing her flower gardens. She was a seamstress and had a talent for the precision skill of darning. She could repair exotic materials that had been torn or holed to near-perfection. It was impossible to see the repair after she was done. She was also very gifted in crochet, knitting and weaving. Many a sweater, tablecloth, doily and knick-knack was created by her hand. One of her favorite hobbies was to fold small strips of paper into beautiful star-shaped decorations for Christmas. Amazing. Erika was very conservative and taught the family the values of life, money, work, play, friends and responsibility. She would go without to make sure the family had all they needed. Erika was the glue in the family. Erika was well-educated and could speak seven languages, five fluently. She was a great help during her son’s upbringing and development. Erika provided guidance and encouragement and inspiration. Erika set an excellent example to live up to. She was a hero among heroes. Erika enjoyed very much her get-together(s) with other German-ancestry residents in Tooele. They would meet monthly and share stories and fine German pastries and treats. She is survived by her by her two sons Richard and Charlie; grandchildren Erika, Sol, Ra and Fountain, and numerous great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Willie; youngest son Steve; sister Gerda; grandson Zaccarri and brother-in-law Eugene. A very special thanks to Diamond Jane’s assisted living facility and staff for their care, love and assistance while Erika was there for over a year. Erika was a treasure and will be remembered for her kindness and generosity. May she rest in peace. Our thoughts will always be with her.