Theresia Antonia Seitzmeir's Obituary
Theresia Antonia Seitzmeir passed away peacefully on January 8th at her home in Newberry, Florida, at the age of 88.
Terry is lovingly remembered by her children, Roger and Michelle, her daughter-in-law Kimberly, and her cherished grandchildren, Katherine and William. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Wilfried, who passed away in 1982. Terry kept his memory alive in her heart, choosing never to remarry.
Born in Pinsdorf, Austria, Terry was the eldest of six children. Her natural curiosity and passion for learning led her to study chemistry, starting her career in the lab of a local dairy. After completing her degree, Terry moved to Germany to work in various laboratories, including at Opel. She later embarked on an adventurous journey, accepting a position as a chemist with Rappaport Tobacco in Puerto Rico in the early 1960s. It was there she met and married Wilfried. Together, they built a beautiful life, raised their family, and ran several businesses.
Terry's thirst for knowledge was insatiable. She returned to school to study finance, earning her MBA. In 1989, she moved to Gaithersburg, Maryland with her children and began a fulfilling career at the World Bank in Washington, D.C., where she worked until retirement. Afterward, she settled in Florida to be closer to her family, especially her grandchildren, who were the light of her life.
Terry’s zest for life was unmatched. An avid cook and captivating storyteller, she delighted in entertaining friends and family. Her adventurous spirit took her from riding motorcycles in her youth to racing Hobie Cats in Puerto Rico and traveling the globe. Among the many places she visited, some of her favorites were climbing the Great Wall of China (twice!), exploring Machu Picchu, seeing the Panama Canal, hiking in the Amazon, crossing Asia on the Trans-Siberian Railway, and sailing across the Atlantic on a Polish freighter. Terry spoke five languages and remained passionate about learning new things and dreaming of future travels.
Above all, Terry’s legacy is one of love, resilience, and an indomitable spirit. Her family and friends will forever cherish the memories of her vibrant presence.
A Mass to celebrate Terry’s life will be held at Holy Faith Church in Gainesville on Friday, February 14th at 11:30 AM. https://holyfaithcatholicchurch.org/.
Please do not send flowers to the family.
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