Gisela Maria Half

Gisela Half passed away at Mercy Hospital on September 19th, 2025, at the age of 91. She was born Gisela Maria Helene Reef on June 30th, 1934, in a small town called Osann, Germany along the Mosel River valley near Bernkastel. The area lies within the Rhineland Palatinate State and is famous for its fine wines. She married Norbert Half in January 1953 at a time when postwar Germany was still struggling to rebuild in the aftermath of the devastation resulting from a world war. Together, they made the decision to immigrate to the United States where the possibility of a future filled with opportunity existed, seeking a better life. In August 1955, after fulfilling all necessary requirements, they were granted permission to travel to America with an infant in tow. Their adventure began by train to Rotterdam, Holland; then by ocean cruise liner to their port of entry of Hoboken, New Jersey; and finally, by train to St. Louis where relatives resided, who bore responsibility as sponsors. It took great courage to travel to a foreign land, unable to speak the language, and with uncertain prospects. She successfully received her citizenship in November 1962. Over the years she worked as a fulltime housekeeper, a waitress, and helped managing a dental laboratory; while, at the same time, being a homemaker. She is preceded in death by her parents, Peter and Hildegard Reef, her loving husband, for 67 years, Norbert Half; her brothers, Manfred, Heribert, Gunther, Norbert, and Hans-Joachim. She is survived by her sister Anita, her son Gary Half (Lori), and daughter Susan Kellenberger (Joe). A lover of all God's creatures, she had a particular fondness for pets. She also enjoyed cooking and baking, proudful of her savory roladen, delicious homemade potato salad, and her German style strawberry shortcake which was enjoyed by many. She was a loving mother who worked hard all her life to provide for her children, while fulfilling the proverbial American dream. Touching the hearts of everyone she encountered during her life; she will be sadly missed. A memorial service will be held on November 14th with a 10 am mass at St. Norbert Catholic Church located at 16455 New Halls Ferry Rd., Florissant, MO 63031. A memorial reception will take place at the Nature Lodge located in Sunset Park, in Florissant following the mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Cat Shelter; nee Animal House Cat Rescue and Adoption Center in her name.

Gisela Maria Half

June 30, 1934 - September 19, 2025