Death date: Sep 17, 2025
Angelika Lerch, 75, of West Hartford, CT, passed away on Wednesday, September 17, 2025. She was born in Germany, daughter of the late Herbert and Ursula (Jesswein) Schmalenbach. Angelika is survived by her son, Jason Lerch, and gr Read Obituary
I remember meeting Angelika the first time in Grandma Griswold’s home. I lived in the duplex with my parents, Henry and Sophie Griswold on one side and Grandma and Grandpa on the other. I was 8 years old. When I was young I looked up to Angelika. Grandma and Grampa sponsored Uncle Willie and Tanta Martha, Uncle Willie was Grandma Griswold‘s brother. I believe, and I could be mistaken, that my parents sponsored Hebert and Ursula.
They moved to their first home on New Park Avenue in West Hartford. Even though I wasn’t allowed to at eight years old, I would walk from my home in Elmwood to their home on New Park Avenue to hang out with my second cousin. I can still see their first home in my mind.
When they moved to West Hartford I’ve spent many a great time in that basement just laughing with the family and enjoying everyone’s company. It was always such a fun place to visit.
Jason and Chloe I am so sorry for your loss. Your Mom and Grandmother is now in God’s hands.
Deborah Griswold Meissner
Angelika and I grew up together while she was a few years older than I was we shared some of the same, things coming to these country from Europe having to adjust and navigate our new environment. We have been lifelong best friends as teens trying to outsmart our parents getting into various mischief together, she has always been my biggest supporter my biggest ally. She was dedicated to Jason and Chloe loved them with all her heart and I will miss her and our daily talks and laughs. While we are losing God is gaining another Angel so Angie if you are watching please keep an eye on us especially me because who is around now to keep me out of trouble. I love and miss you forever.
It was the mid-1950s when the Griswolds gathered to welcome Herbert, Ursula, and Angelika as they embarked on a new life in Connecticut. We met in Elmwood at a duplex shared by Grandma and Grandpa Griswold on one side and Aunt Sophie, Uncle Henry, Grissy, Gerry and Debby Griswold on the other side. It was modest, but large enough to hold the happy welcoming committee!
I was particularly intrigued by my second cousin, Angelika, whom I had never met but knew of. Since she was a baby, we sent her my dolls once I was too old for them. Now, the dolls would be returning to America dressed in newly crocheted dresses fashioned by her grandmother, Martha. Though she was a few years younger than I, her tall stature made a strong impression. As she stepped into this new chapter of her life, I could sense her excitement and a twinge of nervousness betrayed by the blush on her face; it took immense courage to start a new life in America, especially when it was her parents’ decision, not hers. I wanted to know her thoughts, hopes, and dreams about her journey from Germany to Connecticut. I wish I hadn’t been so shy and had asked more questions.
Now, sixty-something years later, she leaves a beautiful legacy: a son, Jason, and a granddaughter, Chloe, whom she raised single-handedly. Her experiences in America not only shaped her identity but also profoundly influenced the way she nurtured her family, inspiring all of us with her strength and resilience.
Angelika, rest with the angels, comforted by the knowledge that your family was blessed with memories from you that they’ll have forever.
Cheryl (Provini) Jean
Granddaughter of Henry and Hilda Griswold
