Ursula Hackethal, 87, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, passed away peacefully at home in Jackson Heights, in her recliner, watching TV on April 10, 2025. Ursula leaves behind a lifetime of memories and love that her family will always cherish.
Ursula was born in Astoria in 1937 to George and Maleen Ekert. She graduated from Bryant High School and worked at the FBI (where she met the love of her life, Martin), IBM, and Research to Prevent Blindness.
Ursula was a devoted mother to Matthew and Ann, and grandmother “Oma” to Marilena, her pride and joy. She always said their birth changed her life for the better, and they felt that in the love and support she provided each day.
Ursula was particularly fond of reading, her NY Times Crosswords, the FDNY, Al Pacino, Tom Selleck, and of course, Patrick Mahomes – lovingly referred to as “her boyfriend”.
Ursula was preceded in death by her husband Martin, father George, and mother Maleen. She is survived by her son Matthew (Lori), daughter Ann (Chris), granddaughter Marilena, beloved sister Georgina (Raymond), and niece Karen. We will never forget the love and joy she brought to our lives.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Ursula’s name to Sunnyside Community Services (https://scsny.org/donate/).
