Julie von Schrader Brinkema, known to those who loved her as one of the kindest and sweetest persons in the world, passed away on 5/2/2024 in Laguna Niguel. She was 86 years old.

Born in 1937 in Ottumwa, Iowa to Max and Esther von Schrader, Julie touched the lives of countless individuals with her gentle spirit and unwavering love. She attended Ottumwa High School, Mount Vernon College, and went on to get her bachelor’s degree in political science at the University of Colorado, Boulder. After graduating, she moved to Los Angeles with school mates. Julie met her future husband, Bruce, while working at Union Bank in Beverly Hills. After living in Los Angeles for 27 years, they moved to New Hampshire where they set down roots in Amherst and Waterville Valley. Julie met lifelong friends there as soon as she arrived, joining the Newcomer’s Club, Knitting and Gardening groups, and book club.

Family was at the center of Julie’s life, and she cherished time spent with her children and grandchildren more than anything else. She also loved her books, ice cream, gardening, puzzles, movies (especially the popcorn), music, theatre, long walks and family pets.

Julie will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of kindness and love will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind. She is predeceased by her husband Bruce Brinkema; brother Max; and parents Max and Esther. She is survived by her children, Corey (Maree), Kristin (Lisa), and Jeannie; her grandchildren, Torsten, Lars, Bode, Berit and Maxwell; her sister-in-law Mary; and nieces, a nephew, and many loving friends.

A celebration of Julie’s life will be held at 11 AM, July 12 at the Congregational Church of Amherst, New Hampshire. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly request donations be made to the Living Desert Memorial Gifts — The Living Desert (donorshops.com) in her honor.