Erika Else Ceccarelli

Erika had immense love for her family and leaves behind her husband of nearly 60 years, Bob; her children, Bobby, Tony, Tanya, and Lara; her sons-in-law, Rafael and Mark; and her grandchildren she referred to as her "Honey Bunnies," Sofia, Nadia, Oliver, Rosie, Elsie, Johnny and Mia. They will all cherish the joyous memories they shared with her forever. Erika was predeceased by her beautiful daughter, Sabina, who surely welcomed her into Heaven.

Born in Nurnberg, Germany, Erika was the daughter of Else Gabriel and Erwin Binninger. She attended Wirtschaftsgymnasium, where she graduated at the top of her class. Erika was fluent in German, French and English, and also studied Spanish later in life.

Erika loved to play tennis and golf, grow flowers in her yard, and sit at the beach whenever she could. She adored her family trips to the Bahamas. She was happiest in her role as a Mother and an Oma, taking care of her family, cooking and baking for everyone around her. Every week, she hosted Sunday dinners and invited her family and friends over to enjoy delicious meals.

Erika was a patient, kind and beautiful person, who accepted everyone with an enormous heart, open arms and a radiant smile. She was a caring, loyal and generous friend to many, and was always appreciated for being the best listener. She had a wonderful sense of humor and an unforgettable laugh.

Erika had boundless compassion and made an impact on every life she touched. For decades, she ran a yearly charity tennis tournament in support of women and children facing domestic violence.

She especially loved making her "Sabina Bears." All year long, she knitted teddy bears for children being treated at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and delivered them every Christmas. She never wanted recognition or praise for this or any other thoughtful act she did. And there were many.

Our beloved Erika/Mom/Oma will be forever loved and desperately missed; but she will always live in our hearts. Her favorite place to be was with all of us. Until we meet again...

Honoring her wishes, a celebration of her extraordinary life will take place this summer, during sunset.

"My precious, precious child. I love you, and I would never leave you during your times of trial and suffering. When you saw only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you." (Footprints in the Sand)