Maria Josefa Ressdorf "Ria" was born on July 11, 1917 in Gersthofen, Germany. She was one of seven girls born to her parents, one still living in Germany. Ria passed away at the age of 92 on March 3, 2010 at Mercy Villa. At her bedside were her son Horst, daughter-in-law Patricia, and granddaughter Renata. Early during World War II, she was working at a Messerschmidt aircraft factory, where she met and married a young Luftwaffe officer. They had two children, Horst and Hannelore. Hannelore died during the war. It seems that Ria never got over this loss. She had to cope with the death of her daughter by herself, as her husband, Hans, had been captured, and was interned at a POW camp in Scotland. After the war the family immigrated to the USA, and settled in N.J. Ria eventually moved to a retirement home, Leisure Village in Lakewood, N.J. She enjoyed her life, Loved to play tennis, go bowling, swimming, and most of all, she loved being able to help residents with their needs. She traveled extensively to Germany and Russia. She volunteered at a local hospital in Lakewood. She saw her son Horst Married and commissioned as an officer in the US Army. Ria was a very strict parent who instilled many values in her family. Most important to her, 1. Never lie, 2. Work Hard, and 3. Always take responsibility for your actions. In March of 2004, due to declining health and ability to care for herself, she moved to Missouri to be with her family. She leaves her son Horst; daughter-in-law Patricia; grandchildren Hans Erik Ressdorf, Robin Dieter Ressdorf, and Renata Hannelore Ressdorf. Hans and Robin are currently serving in the U.S. Army, and she saw her granddaughter Renata recently graduate from nursing school. There is one great granddaughter, Ria Jade Ressdorf who is preparing to enter college. Ria lived a full life, had the satisfaction of helping others, and doing many things that were enjoyable. We all wish she was still with us, but are glad that she had a full, good life.