Madeline Englerth, one of God’s Angels on earth, returned to heaven on March 30, 2013. She was a shining example of a devoted Catholic who lived her faith by showing love and concern for others. Born in Detroit, Michigan, Madeline was raised in St. Paul, Minnesota. The only daughter of Florence and Leo Englerth. She graduated from St.Catherine College with a degree in Physical Education. After moving to California, she taught grade school in Monterey at Santa Catalina School and in Palo Alto at St Albert the Great, now Saint Elizabeth Seton School. She also took a long term position assisting Mrs. Marcia Hart with the needs of her large family. She quickly became a treasured member of the Hart family and provided many years of valuable service. She was greatly loved and fondly remembered by the surviving family who travelled from around the country to honor Madeline on the occasion of her 80th birthday 2 years ago at the Toll House in Los Gatos. As a retired teacher, Madeline was still in contact with some of her 4th grade students from long ago. For example, she was treated to a limo ride to San Francisco where she was wined and dined by a former student at his 50th birthday celebration. Everyone who knew her loved her. She was unforgettable. As a long time resident of Saratoga and Los Gatos, Madeline was a devoted parishioner at Sacred Heart Church. She served as a Lecture, Eucharist Minister and tireless volunteer. She also gave generously to Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County. She was an active member of the Young Ladies Institute (YLI) for over 30 years and former member of the Catala Club of Santa Clara University, She counted her fellow members as some of her best friends. Although Madeline did not have a family of her own in California, she was adored by many and considered a Matriarch to the Pursley Family. She was included in all major gatherings ranging from baptisms to funerals. In times of great joy her infectious laugh made us more joyful. In times of great sorrow she was there to comfort us and help shoulder the burden. Madeline’s generousity was boundless. How she remembered the special dates in so many friends’ lives was incredible. Cards and or phone calls were always timely. Gifts were usually included. If you chose not to cash her regular check one year, she would send a cashier’s check the next year. When Madeline knew someone was going to spend a special day alone, that person would find themselves being treated by her to a meal at local restaurants like The Wine Cellar, California Café or Little Amsterdam. When you arrived, it seemed every employee, from the bus boy to the owner, knew Madeline and was happy to see her. Madeline’s only vice was a love for all things peanut butter. Her favorite lunch menu at home included a peanut butter, mayonnaise and lettuce sandwich followed by Reese’s Pieces of course. An avid sports fan, Madeline followed all sports. She could readily recite stats and players names from recent and past sporting events. At 49er parties she came dressed in all the proper attire. She always brightened up the room. Even after a recent stroke, she knew Tiger Woods was leading a golf tournament with MacIlroy in second and Mickelson in third. Madeline graced all of us with her love. She will be truly missed. Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 4th between 5-9pm with a Rosary at 7:00pm at Lima Family Santa Clara, 466 N. Winchester Blvd. Santa Clara. Mass will be held on Friday, April 5th at 10:30am, Sacred Heart Church, 13716 Saratoga Ave, Saratoga. Interment to follow at Madronia Cemetery later in the day. Donations can be made to Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County, 2625 Zanker Rd. San Jose, Ca. 95134 or St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Dept 142, Memphis, Tennessee 38101.
(408) 296-2977 www.limafamilysantaclara.comLima Family Santa Clara
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