Elise Gichon-Strauss' Obituary
Elise Gichon Strauss, a remarkable and accomplished woman, passed away on April 19, 2026, in Boulder, Colorado, just days before her 80th birthday. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, intellect, and deep love for her family. She was born in Brussels, Belgium, on April 23, 1946, shortly after her parents and brother emerged from hiding during World War II in the French Alps. Growing up in the shadow of that history instilled in her a lifelong ethic of resilience, independence, and hard work. In a time when opportunities for women were limited, Elise fought to pursue her education, studying linguistics at the University of Brussels before moving to Israel to make aliyah. She lived in Israel for four years, where she met her first husband, Gadi Gichon, and welcomed their first daughter, Galia, in 1971. In 1973, they moved to New York, where their second daughter, Yael, was born. Seeking a warmer climate, the family later relocated to Plantation, Florida in 1976. After her divorce in 1980, Elise moved to Hollywood, FL and met and married Lawrence Arthur Strauss, the love of her life. Together, they blended their families, including his daughters, Melanie and Erica. Elise had a lifelong passion for language, culture, and human connection. Fluent in seven languages, she built a respected career as an interpreter and founded her business, Seven Languages. Lawrence later joined her in growing the company, expanding its reach and impact. Together, they were true partners in both life and work. Elise took great pride in helping bridge cultures and foster understanding, guided by her curiosity and intellectual nature. Her accomplishments included translating for the State Department, United Nations, Diana Nyad and Gorbachev. She was an avid reader and a passionate traveler who embraced the world with enthusiasm and grace. Her journeys took her across Europe, throughout the United States, and to destinations including South America, the Galápagos, India, Japan, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Egypt. She loved art, foreign films, and good food, and was an exceptional cook who delighted in sharing meals with family and friends. Music brought her joy, especially folk, classical, and traditional French songs. Elise maintained close ties with her family in Belgium and Israel and cherished those relationships deeply. Above all, she treasured time with her children and grandchildren, Sophie, Hannah, Noa, Orlee, Adin and Samuel, who brought her immense pride and happiness. Elise and Lawrence shared 41 years of marriage, a partnership defined by love, resilience, and devotion. She will be remembered as a strong, intelligent, and compassionate woman whose presence enriched the lives of all who knew her. Her legacy lives on through her family and the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished. Donations to her memory can be made to Alzheimer's Association and Planned parenthood.
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