Christa Gharbo

Christa Roth Gharbo, beloved mother, grandmother, peace activist, and former athlete, passed away on Oct 9 at the age of 87. Christa was born in 1936 in Poessneck, Germany, and grew up in post-World War II East Germany. From an early age, she displayed remarkable talent as a swimmer, earning a place on the DDR national team. At an international competition in Bucharest, she met her future husband, Samir Gharbo, an Egyptian water polo player.

While visiting Samir in Egypt, the Berlin Wall was erected on the day she was to return to Germany. Faced with the heart-wrenching decision to return home, possibly never seeing Samir again, or staying in Egypt and risking never seeing her family, Christa chose love. She remained in Egypt and married Samir, embracing a new life and culture. In 1969, the couple and their sons immigrated to the United States, where Christa found the freedom of expression to be both intoxicating and liberating. This newfound freedom became a driving force in her life, leading her to become a dedicated peace activist. Christa worked tirelessly raising awareness for peace in the Middle East and the world. She supported global efforts to address injustices around the world.

Christa was preceded in death by her husband, Samir Gharbo, and her sister, Helga Bartenstein. She is survived by her sons, Sam Gharbo (Christy) and Raouf Gharbo (Tracy), and her cherished grandchildren, Alex, Melina, and Max. Christa’s legacy lives on through her family and the many lives she touched through her activism, kindness, and unwavering dedication to a more just and peaceful world.

Those who knew her best will celebrate her life as someone who fought for peace, embraced the beauty of freedom, and cherished family bonds. Christa’s memory will live on in the hearts of all fortunate to know her.