Hannelore Rueckheim

Born to Otto and Johanna Hubner, she was known to family and friends as “Lorie.” Lorie grew up in Germany during World War II, enduring wartime hardship and facing many adversity with a steady resilience and quiet bravery that would remain a hallmark of her life.

Lorie met her husband, Henric “Hank,” at a Christmas dinner in Germany while he was serving in the military. After Hank returned to the United States, they wrote letters to one another for a year—an enduring testament to devotion, patience, and the hard work of building a life across distance. Lorie then made her way to the U.S., where she and Hank married and, together, built a life in Glendale, New York. They welcomed two children, Karen and Steven, and 27 years ago, Lorie, became a devoted grandmother to her one and only grandson, Nicholas—deeply cherished, proudly loved, and held close in her heart.

In Glendale, Lorie was widely known for her kind-hearted nature and spirited presence—a true firecracker in the best sense, with warmth that drew people in and resolve that never wavered. She was an animal advocate, often called the Dr. Dolittle of Glendale, and she spoke up for dogs, cats, racoons, and animals of all kinds with unwavering care and compassion.

Lorie also held a deep affection for the opera and maintained a subscription to the Metropolitan Opera House. She often attended with her father-in-law, Hans, her trusted “partner in crime,” sharing in evenings of music and tradition that brought her joy. In her home, her love was also expressed through food: Lorie was an amazing cook and baker, and her hard work and generosity were felt in the meals and treats she prepared for those around her. Lorie was also a diehard New York Mets Fan, and no matter win or lose, she always sat to watch her favorite team play

Lorie will be remembered with respect and gratitude—as beloved, resilient, brave, and deeply kind-hearted—by all who had the privilege to know her.

In lieu of flowers, Lorie's family request that you make a donation in her name to animal advocacy charity of your choosing.