Johanna (Hanna) Katz passed away peacefully on February 20, 2021 at age 109. She will be forever missed by her loving children Barbara Ostrolenk (Steve) and Martin Katz; Grandchildren: David Katz (Katia), Gary Katz (Monica), Lisa Caudill and Marc Ostrolenk. She is also survived by seven Great Grandchildren: Adam Katz, Dylan Katz, Joseph Katz, Charlotte Katz, Paige Katz, Allison Caudill and Scott Caudill, Nieces, Nephews, and numerous friends.
Johanna Bauer was born on September 22, 1911 in Leihgestern, Germany just north of Frankfort. She was the only child of Moses and Rivkah Bauer. She married Alfred Katz in August of 1938 and after the horrors of Kristal Night in November, they fled Germany to the United States, sadly leaving their parents and many relatives behind to be exterminated by the Nazis.
Upon coming to the United States, they settled in a small three-room apartment in Washington Heights, New York. After years of hard work, they moved to a home in Rego Park, NY where she lived until 2019. She moved to Heritage Manor in Youngstown, Ohio to be near her daughter.
Johanna believed strongly in a good education for her children and enjoyed her family, extended family. dear cousin, and wonderful friends. She especially enjoyed celebrating holidays and special occasions. She loved to play canasta with her friends. Her grandchildren and great grand children brought her the most joy.
Hanna was extremely proud of the American flag flown over the United States Capital on February 3, 2020 to honor her as having reached over one hundred years in age. The flag commemorates her extraordinary valor and tenacity in rebuilding her life after the Holocaust. It was proudly displayed in her room.
Johanna was preceded in death by her husband Alfred.
The family wishes to thank her special neighbors and caregivers in New York, and the Staff at Heritage Manor for their kindness and support.
A private graveside service and burial was held on Tuesday February 23rd at 1:30pm at Mount Moriah Cemetery, Fairview, New Jersey.
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