Gertrude Theresa Krappmann

Gertrude Theresa Krappmann (nee Schmatz) age 81 of Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan, passed away peacefully with her family at her side on April 14, 2022 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was the loving wife of the late George, adored mother of Kathryn (Chris) Flanagan, Christine (the late Joseph) Sfair, George (Lynda) and Anne Marie and beloved grandmother of Christopher Flanagan, Meghan (Michael) Loftus, John Flanagan, Joseph Sfair, Thomas Sfair, Olivia Sfair and Madelyn Krappmann. She is survived by her sister Irmgard Mueller, sisters-in-law Barb Schmatz, Karen West, Rosalie Fischer, brother-in-law Robert Bishop and many cherished cousins, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents Hans and Marie Schmatz, siblings, Mary Margaret (Gert) Hubert, John (Nancy) Schmatz, Ernie Schmatz and Rick Schmatz and brother-in-law Roland Mueller. She was also predeceased by in-laws George and Kuni Krappmann, Marie (Bob) Fontanive, Udo Fischer, Lil Bishop, Anita (Dennis) Moore and Edward Krappmann.

Well known for her incredible cooking, Gerty put family above all else and took great pleasure in making her signature dishes for all to enjoy. Staunchly proud of her German heritage, she instilled the importance of tradition in her family and loved to share stories over a nice meal. She appreciated the simple things in life and was happiest spending time with friends and family, especially her grandchildren. They were her greatest joys and she was immensely proud of each of them and all their accomplishments.

An avid sports fan, she was especially dedicated to watching Michigan State, Red Wings and Tigers games. She rarely missed an episode of Wheel of Fortune or Jeopardy and was a skilled puzzle and clue solver. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, reading the daily newspaper cover to cover and always had an impressive selection of snacks available. She had a gift of remembering birthdays of friends and family members and made it a priority to send cards or texts to acknowledge loved ones on their special day.

She had a quick wit with a healthy dose of sarcasm and a feisty sense of humor. She fought cancer with dignity, grace and her unique amount of stubbornness. She was an amazing, caring, generous and loving woman who made a positive impact on all who were blessed to know and love her.

Visitation Wednesday 1-8 pm with a prayer service at 7 pm. In state 10 am Thursday at St. Lucy Catholic Church, 23401 Jefferson, St. Clair Shores, until the time of her mass at 11 am. Interment at Resurrection Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Capuchin Soup Kitchen, 1820 Mt. Elliott St., Detroit, Michigan 48207 or The Catholic Kolping Society at www.kolping.org.