Elisabeth Anna Greeff

Elisabeth Anna Greeff (1938-2025)

Elisabeth Anna Greeff, affectionately known as "Zusje” and “Grandma Base”, passed away at the age of 86 in West Jordan, Utah, on January 12, 2025. Born on May 20, 1938, in Zeist, Netherlands, to Lourens and Marie Edie, Elisabeth's life was a remarkable journey marked by resilience, adventure, and unwavering faith.

Elisabeth's early years were spent on a tobacco plantation in Java, Indonesia. She often shared fond memories of the tropical environment, plants and animals. While there, she experienced the trials of World War II, spending time interned in a Japanese war camp. The Indonesian revolution later prompted her family's move to Oosterbeek, Netherlands.

In 1961, Elisabeth's life took a pivotal turn when she encountered LDS missionaries in Amsterdam. This meeting led to her conversion to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and introduced her to her future husband and love of her life, Remi Hendricus Greeff. She immigrated to the United States, where she worked at Primary Children's Hospital, a role she cherished. On August 16, 1963, they were married in the Salt Lake Temple by N. Eldon Tanner.

Elisabeth and Remi were blessed with three children: Talon (Terilee), Kevin (Juleen), and Saskia (Jim). However, tragedy struck when Remi, an Air Force pilot, was killed serving his country in Vietnam in January 1969. Despite the profound loss, Elisabeth faced the challenges of single parenthood with remarkable strength and resilience. She was a devoted mother, instilling in her children the values of love, education, and perseverance. Her generous spirit extended to her role as a cherished grandmother to 11 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren, creating a family legacy filled with warmth and joy.

Elisabeth's life was a testament to her faith and commitment to service. She dedicated over 40 years to teaching primary children within the LDS church, touching countless lives with her kindness, wisdom and annual gingerbread house making. Her talents extended beyond her church service; she was an accomplished seamstress, making Halloween costumes every year for each of her grandchildren. Her love for animals was evident through her own animals that she spoiled relentlessly as well as her generous donations to shelters. Her passions included shopping, cooking, playing Skip-Bo, and driving, often referring to her car as her "wings.”

Elisabeth leaves behind a family and community deeply touched by her kindness and generosity. Her legacy is one of strength, love, and perseverance, inspiring all who had the privilege of knowing her. A viewing will be held on Friday, January 17, from 9:00-10:45 am, followed by a funeral service at the Heritage 5th Ward LDS church, 6772 S 3420 W, West Jordan, Utah. Her family invites all who knew her to join in celebrating a life well-lived, honoring the remarkable journey of a woman who touched so many with her spirit and love.