Obituary of Gerhard Heller

Gerhard Heller, the youngest son of Ludwig Heller and Magdalene Fischer, was born in the small farming village of Weilersbach, Wuerttemberg, Germany November 21, 1929 and died in his home in Santa Barbara, California on May 12, 2020. 

Gerhard studied horticulture in Germany and Switzerland to become a Master Gardener. Then at age 24 he courageously followed his spirit of adventure and immigrated to the United States. He spoke fondly of his home and family growing up, but said he never regretted the move. Gerhard lived the American Dream…he built a beautiful life in Santa Barbara, California where his family was his pride and joy. He was either working hard to provide for them or spending treasured quality time with them. His significant desire was for his children to have opportunities for a better life. He succeeded by using his education and dedication to cultivate the soil and make surroundings beautiful, both at home and for his clients.

After retiring twenty years ago, he cared for his wife until he was plagued with illness himself. He was fortunate to have a wonderful group of caregivers who lovingly supported and cared for him to the end. He will be missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of family and friends who were privileged to know and love him.

He is survived by his brother Walter Heller, his wife, Brunhilde born Lehr; his son Gerhard L. Heller, wife Mary, and their daughter Daniella; his daughter Susanne Skabelund, husband Todd, and their children Dane, Zachary, Kirsten and Kari; and his daughter Deanna Edwards, husband Sam, and their children Tenaya and Bryce, as well as nine great-grandchildren.

He will be laid to rest in the Santa Barbara Cemetery.