Gisela Sorenson, 91

It is with sad hearts we announce the passing of Gisela Sorenson on Jan. 9, 2023.

Gisela was born in Berlin, Germany, on July 28, 1931. She was a weak baby not expected to survive, but that was the last weakness she ever showed.

As a young child she loved to entertain, dance and sing, making everyone applaud her efforts.

At age 14, she joined the circus, perfecting her skills. She later joined a dance troop and toured all over Germany, sending money back home to help support her mother, siblings and her young child.

Gisela survived the bombing of Berlin and escaped to West Germany with the immediate family taking only what they could carry.

Meanwhile, she dreamt of coming to America. That dream was realized in 1954. Three years later, she and her brother, Wolfgang, brought the rest of the family to America.

Gisela joined Arthur Murray dance studio where she worked and flourished before moving to a wheat ranch in Harrison, Idaho. Quite a change of lifestyle! Gisela would always dress to the nines. You could always pick her out in a crowd!

After her years on the farm, she moved to Coeur d’Alene and became a realtor. During that period, she also met Tim Frese. She and Tim spent the next 40 years together.

Gisela is survived by her life partner, Tim Frese; her daughter, Marion Fischer; her grandson, Sam Fischer; and several nieces and nephews.

Those who left before her on this earthly journey were her mother, Margarete Fischer; her brother, Wolfgang Fischer; her sister, Ursula Kessler; and niece Monica Johnson.

A very heartfelt thanks for the comfort and care given by all those with Gentiva Hospice, Home Instead, and a special thanks to Rebekah Dobson.

Yates Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements. Please visit Gisela’s online memorial and sign her guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.