Brigitte "Gitti" Foellmer

In Loving Memory: 1947-2007

The responsible and insightful Gitti was a “force of nature” who devoted her life and attention to the good of everyone around her. Loved and revered by all, Gitti could at times be a bit intimidating – but colleagues say this combination was her great recipe for success: She expected no less of others than she expected of herself. Yet, in Gitti's case everyone else's needs came first. A gifted laboratory experimentalist and organizational wizard, Gitti ran a large research operation with ease and grace. Intelligent, strong, humane and caring, Gitti was one of a kind. We will never forget you!

Notice published in the New Haven Register on 07/29/2007:

On July 24th 2007, Brigitte Erika Foellmer died peacefully at her family home in Guilford CT. She is survived by her devoted husband, Harald Foellmer, her mother, Anneliese Werner, her three children Oliver, Kristin and Nele, as well as her granddaughter Lena Foellmer. Brigitte, known by most as Gitti, always strived to live a full life. Born in Germany in 1947, she married her husband in 1968. With two small children, the family moved to the US in 1979 and settled in Guilford, CT. Gitti was a two-time breast cancer survivor and three years ago, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Her courageous battle has been the inspiration to many. Gitti worked at Yale University for 25 years and had a passion for her work, working until the very last days. She managed the Franke, Helenius and Mellman labs all in turn. Her zest for life was infectious and carried through into everything she did. Most knew her for her ferocious tennis playing, her devotion to her orchids, but most were awed by the strong bond and lifelong romance that Gitti and Harald shared. There will be a memorial service held on August 4, at 5 pm, at the First Congregational Church, 122 Broad St, Guilford. Reception to immediately follow the service in the adjacent Fellowship Hall. The Family request that in lieu of Flowers, contributions be made to From Discovery to Cure" c/o Office of Development, Yale University Cancer Center, 157 Church St, New Haven, CT 06510 or to Connecticut Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd, Branford, CT 06405. Arrangements in care of the Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church St, Guilford. www.guilfordfuneralhome.com.

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