Lida Ann (Koehring) Gaschke

Lida Ann Gaschke

With a very heavy heart, I would like to announce the passing of our beloved mother, Lida Gaschke, on July 8, 2024. Lida, the middle child of five, was born in Indianapolis, Indiana to Arlene and Paul Koehring on 4/5/1932. Shortly after graduating high school, she moved to New York City to pursue a career in professional dance. Lida became a member of Ballet Theatre, later known as the American Ballet Theatre. She also performed in numerous Broadway musicals including Pal Joey and Pajama Game, as well as on television with the June Taylor Dancers. Lida married Dr. Marcel Gaschke, a research scientist, in 1956, and had two children, Yvonne and Paul. The family lived in Toms River, NJ for 12 years and then moved to Pleasantville, NY. Lida opened schools of ballet for children both while living in Toms River and then in Pleasantville. She was also one of the first Lamaze (natural childbirth) instructors in the country. Lida made a decision to enroll in college in her forties earning a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts. In addition to her studies, she was granted credits for several of her past endeavors and accomplishments. Lida began to focus seriously on developing her natural athleticism in her late forties. She won gold medals in several triathlons and then turned her attention to training as a Masters swimmer. Lida competed in numerous local and national meets until the age of 79. During this time, it was a rare occasion when she won anything less than gold. Sadly, Lida’s involvement in swimming began to wane in her late seventies due to the gradual development of difficulties with coordination and cognition. She was formally diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia with Parkinsonism at the age of 80. Lida combatted this cruel disease for 14 years, passing away in her home on 7/8/2024 at the age of 92. Lida was often described as “an angel without wings.” She was adored by all who knew her and will be greatly missed.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, August 4, 2024 at 4pm at the Hartsdale SDA Church - 50 Columbia Ave Hartsdale, NY 10530.

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