Life story

" January 29, 1932- July 16, 2023
by Jimmy Karlan

Hella was born in East Germany and migrated with her family to Koblentz, West Germany where she grew up after World War II. She fled from the Russians on the eastern front and witnessed horrors no child ever should. And still she came to America with a heart filled with love.

Hella joined the Karlan family in 1956, when Jimmy was born, the third child of Mickey and Walter Karlan. Hella quickly became more than a Nanny. She was a gifted cook; so good her infamous butter cookies, if put in the right palettes, could create world peace. She held entropy at bay and kept order in a house of chaos. She was a Jill of all trades: bilinguist, fluent in German and English; house and property manager; chef extraordinaire; tireless hostess; master gardener; florist; magical stain remover; chauffeur to countless sporting events; ski and swim instructor; protector from thunder and lightning; keeper of adolescent secrets; and Walter Karlan’s boss; as he lovingly referred to her. First and foremost, she was a wonderful mother to the three kids.

She lived with the Karlan's for 48 years, 15 of which Hella shared a room with her mom, Mutti. Together they created a safe space for rebellious teenagers. Their room was infused with love. For almost five decades Hella took care of grandparents, Walter, and everyone else within the Karlan's sphere: George & Phyllis and their children, Michael & Gary and their families.

She considered Kenny, Debbie and Jimmy her children, and later Kathryn and Liz her daughters and Eric, Ross, Galen and Isaac her grandchildren.

Hella retired in 2005 and moved to Las Vegas to be near her closest friend, Gerta. They were regulars at the Olive Garden, and became well known for their personal supply of leftover containers. She loved taking daily walks and reading novels.

Hella had an extraordinary gift at recalling, almost verbatim, every conversation during the 67 years she has been part of the Karlan family. She loved retelling those stories and releasing an infectious laugh while telling them.

If you know Hella well enough, it’s likely you can still hear her repeating her two favorite expressions: “That’s ridiculous” and “Get out of my kitchen!”

Hella was much loved by her brother Paul Syburra and his family. Hella visited and travelled with Paul and his wife frequently. Hella adored them and they her. Hella was also engaged in the lives of her niece Anya and her family, as well as her nephew Dirk and his family. Dirk and his wife were dedicated to Hella during this past year, providing her with much love and care.

The Karlan family is forever indebted to Hella’s generous love and care.

Hella and the Karlan’s 67-year’s together is proof that, “It is not flesh and blood but the heart that make us family.” (Author unknown)
"