Ulla A. Chrisman

Ulla Axelsson Chrisman, 83, of New York City, passed away peacefully on June 17th, 2024, in her beloved Manhattan apartment. She was preceded in death by her only child, Clayton Halden Chrisman, her brother Claes Axelsson, and her niece Charlotte A. Strömbom. She is survived by her niece and nephews, Madeleine Johansson, Gustaf A. Strömbom, and Fredrik A. Strömbom, all of Sweden.

Born in Sweden in 1941, Ulla and her brother Claes were adopted at an early age, and they spent their childhoods in Klågerup Castle, while summering at the seaside in Torekov. A graduate of Lund University, Ulla was fluent in four languages, enabling her to become a Pan Am stewardess. She traveled the world with Pan Am, at one point receiving a personal rendition of “Happy Birthday” directly from Frank Sinatra. She later took a job at the Associated Press’ Rockefeller Center headquarters, where she remained through the rest of her career. After her retirement, Ulla spent each summer at her beloved friggebod in rural Sweden, on the edge of a farm field in her brother’s backyard. It was a sharp contrast to her apartment on Madison Avenue, a contrast which is no surprise to those who knew her. Always generous with her time and affection, Ulla was as comfortable in the humblest of settings as she was in the most refined.

Ulla was a longtime supporter of the American Scandinavian Society in New York, especially of their arts program. The Society’s annual Christmas Ball was a highlight of her calendar. She was a dedicated lover of dogs, and her family included several Labradors over the course of her lifetime. Always the most lively, witty, and interesting person in the room, Ulla enjoyed entertaining and parties. She was a gracious hostess, frequently welcoming her friends for candlelit conversation, elegant Swedish dinners, and late nights full of laughter. Although an octogenarian in age, she never left her thirties in attitude, energy, and zest for life. Ulla will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A private memorial was held, at the family’s request. In lieu of flowers, contributions are invited in her memory to the American Scandinavian Society (a 501c3 organization) or at your local dog or animal shelter.