_{It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Anneliese (Engelhardt) Messerklinger in Anacortes, Washington on May 1, 2018.}

_{Anneliese was born the daughter of Elsa (Merkel) and Walter Engelhardt on September 30, 1931 in the city of Döbern, Germany. She was a devoted wife, mother, aunt, grandmother and sister. She is predeceased by her husband Anton, to whom she was married for 63 years. She is survived by her daughter Leslie (Dave), her son Tom (Lisa), her sister Elvira (Roman) her grandchildren: Mandy, Stephen, Annalisa and Alexandra, great grandson Devon, nieces, nephews, in-laws and friends.}

_{Anneliese married Anton (Tony) Messerklinger in Frankfurt in 1953. After the arrival of their daughter Leslie, Anneliese and her extended family immigrated to the United States, settling in Burlington, Iowa. In the coming years, her family took residence in Lake Stevens, Washington and Rochester, NY. Upon retirement, Anneliese and Tony returned to the Pacific Northwest (which according to her, was reminiscent of her homeland). She moved to a home on Camano Island, Washington, and it was here that she and Tony would spend the rest of their days.}

_{Anneliese enjoyed cooking family recipes, and her specialties were rouladen and pastries. She was happy to share her delectable creations with others, and always had a great-tasting cup of coffee at the ready. She worked hard not only preparing meals, cleaning, and caring for her family but tending to her vast vegetable garden, where she found serenity. She also found peace in her church, and she strove to lead a life under the disciplines of her Catholic faith. Her "live and let live" attitude was contagious.}

_{Anneliese was as tough as they come, never letting her aches and pains get in the way of providing for her family. In her final days, she was fiercely stubborn in her resolve to recover. We are inspired by her courage and will remember her kind and peaceful spirit.}

_{The family will announce services at a future date.}

_{In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Anneliese's name to:}

_{St. Cecilia Catholic Church
26900 78} ^th _{Ave. NW
PO Box 1002
Stanwood, WA 98292
www.stceciliastanwood.org}