There are videos (in the Gallery tab) spontaneously captured four days before my mom's passing. She had fallen and broke her arm and spent the weekend at the El Camino Hospital. I feel so blessed to have these recent memories of her and of course the special time spend together that weekend -- passing the time with lovely David (her personal troubadour), watching lots of handsome Trevor Noah online (she liked him as much as Obama :>), flipping through magazines (of course she had opinions on all the clothes and models), joking around with the wonderful nurses, and chatting about whatnot. She was in some pain with her arm - but of course was as stoic as ever. She did share with me that 'growing old was for the birds' and '91 is just ridiculous' and that her 'future didn't look so hot' among other things. I tried to reassure her that she had her lovely home and big fat Lucy (what she called her cat) and so many that loved her back home, but she said that she should have died at 90 and was really ready to go. I didn't take it that seriously because other than the fall and of course Alzheimers, she was strong as an ox. But dang, though I am heartbroken over her passing, I am in compete awe of my mom. This amazing old broad, who as strong and independent as ever, manifested what she wanted and died peacefully in her sleep. God rest your soul mama. 

I feel so lucky to have had GiJa in my life. While she wasn't my bio grandmother she always accepted me as one of her own. A couple of thanksgivings ago, after everyone else had gone to bed, she got up and snuck into the kitchen to grab a glass of wine. Seeing me, she asked for it to be our little secret. Her sweet playful side made her a joy to talk to even when her memory was slipping.

Jeanne was one of a kind: outgoing, strong, busy till the end. It was a treat to travel with her in Paris; at age 90 on the top level of a sight-seeing bus, enjoying the city view. She was a caring and generous mother-in-law, and an engaging grandparent to my children, who had lost theirs before they were 9 y. Jeanne was at her finest hosting family at the holidays.  We will miss her.

This woman has got a fire and a sense of flair that did not disappear and will be carried on through her family friends that her energy touched. I feel lucky that I got to be an honorary grandchild of this - as Eli accurately named - playful soul. We'll miss her presence at so many gatherings of which she was a key part. We will surely honor and remember her.

GJ was outgoing, unapologetic, intelligent, resolute, and sociable. Growing up, she was an amazing example of a strong woman. You always knew what was on her mind and you could trust her for an honest opinion. She continued to be active physically and mentally all the way into her 90's and I strive to be like her one day. I will miss her with all my heart and know she is at peace in heaven

I miss you GiJa! I have so many funny memories with you! Everything from getting beat up by your crazy cats, eating sugar free ice-cream with you, scheming you into drinking fake wine, and being scared to death by your driving. I love you and I'm glad you will be able to rest now. I've also been reflecting over some of your habits and they are truly inspiring to me.

(oops ran out of words here) I was always really impressed by the way you read the paper every morning, continued to learn French throughout your life, noodled your way through the Olympic sized pool every time I visited, and always read new books. I'm really trying to keep these habits in mind especially during these crazy corona times. Take care GiJa! You'll always be remembered!!!

I’ll never forget my grandma Gija. Any time you needed Someone to laugh with,  watch the game with, or a partner for some fun banter Gija was always there. She was a special grandma that will always hold a place in my heart. I love you Gija.

My parents bought the Straube’s house in Los Altos Hills over 40 years ago and how their daughter Alison became one of my best friends. Ms. Straube, as I always called her was one of those moms, like mine you just knew adored her children through her tough love approach. She always welcomed me with snacks and advice whether I wanted it or not. She was funny, caring and strong. I admired her strength, love and generosity and feel lucky to have known her.

I first met Jeanne on the tennis court where we had lots of fun playing together until she beat me! After that we stopped playing tennis but became great friends. I could always count on Jeanne to be very direct which I liked. It was fun living close by and watching our kids grow up together. Jeanne always seemed so healthy and strong. I miss her very much.

My grandma Gija was such a lively person. She always had tons of energy and a quick tongue! Between playing at the club, fresh-made meals at her house, and helping her to figure out the latest technology she had gotten, I always had a fantastic time with Gija. I am so lucky to have had her as my grandmother because she definitely enriched my life in more ways than I can describe.