Elsbeth Luedi

Published 1:10 pm Tuesday, January 21, 2025

Elsbeth Luedi, 87, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 17th.

Elsbeth was born August 21, 1937 in the small village of Ersigen, Switzerland.  At the age of 23, she moved to Chicago with her husband, Hans Luedi.  They had 2 children, Kim Luedi and Susie Luedi Sheffer.  After 26 years in Chicago, Hans and Elsbeth moved to Tryon, where they fell in love with the mountain views and small-town community.  Not only did Elsbeth love, raise and guide her own children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, she also spent her life caring for and supporting local children.  After reading an article about the Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) program in 1997, she volunteered her time being a voice and advocating for over 100 kids in 25+ years.  She was a member of the Swiss American Society, and thoroughly enjoyed August 1st parties and other events. 

Elsbeth loved to read, sing and yodel her red wine, and host dinner for family and friends.  She loved all her pets and enjoyed watching soccer – with many years supporting the PC Wolverines.  When she wasn’t making her famous “Grosi Bread”, you could find her knitting – her absolute favorite thing to do.  Countless sweaters, socks, hats, doll outfits, hacky sacks, and prayer shawls; she would also make baby blankets and hats to donate to local hospitals.  Elsbeth attended Tryon Presbyterian Church.  She cherished Switzerland and being around her friends and family, where they would deliberately slow down and embrace the moment enjoying homemade cheeses, chocolates, wines, and the sounds of cowbells.  

Grosi will be lovingly remembered by her strong will, passion in her faith and her church, and unwavering support to everyone in the community. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to: Foothills Humane Society (PO Box 985, Columbus NC 28722) or Hospice of the Carolina Foothills (The Carnation Foundation)

Elsbeth was preceded in death by parents; Rudolph and Klara Hügli; Siblings, Ruth Schmid-Hügli, Gertrud Fahrni-Hügli, Rudolf Hügli-Schmid; Husband, Hans Luedi; Daughter in Law, Susan Santi Luedi

She is survived by her two children: Kim Luedi and Susie Luedi Sheffer (Robbie). Four grandchildren: Heidi Winn (Steven), Stephanie Luedi (Travis Aldred), Mike Sheffer (Megan) and Melissa Luedi. Four great-grandchildren: Caroline Worthington, Jackson Winn, Brenley Luedi, and Arial Luedi and Nieces and Nephews, family and friends in Switzerland. 

A memorial service will be held at 4 PM Friday, January 24, 202,4 at Tryon Presbyterian Church. 

Crowe Mortuary 

Rutherfordton