RON HENGGELER

April 21, 2008
Rest for a 1906 survivor

Yesterday in an email that I sent out to my mailing list, I mentioned Chrissie Martinstein. I wrote:
Lastly, here is one of my photos of Chrissie Martinstein. Chrissie is a favorite and honored customer of mine at the restaurant where I work. This year, Chrissie will be celebrating her 111th year birthday. Chrissie was a 9 year old girl in 1906. On the night of April 18th, 1906, with the city already besieged with uncontrolled burning, she and her family slept on the sidewalk outside their home near Market and Van Ness out of fear of aftershocks. Chrissie never once left the city she loves. She has lived in San Francisco her entire life. If ever anyone deserved a standing ovation and numerous curtain calls, it’s Chrissie Martinstein. Hats off to dear Chrissie!

Within minutes of sending out the email, I received a reply from Chrissie’s niece in Florida, Lynn Martinstein. She wrote: Ron, thought you would want to know that Chrissie died in her sleep on Friday night. She was 110. There is no memorial service but raise a glass in her honor when you get a chance. She was a grande dame in every sense. Lynn

(On April, 18th 2006, when San Francisco pulled out all the stops and celebrated the1906 Earthquake and Fire Centennial, 109 year old Chrissie, bundled up to the pre-dawn chill, escorted by the San Francisco Fire Department, made it up Market Street to Lotta’s Fountain at five in the morning to take part in the ceremonies. She was greeted by thousands and given a hero’s welcome. )

Chrissie celebrating her 110th birthday at the Big 4 Restaurant.

Chrissie celebrating her 110th birthday at the Big 4 Restaurant.

Chrissie celebrating her 110th birthday at the Big 4 Restaurant.

How incredible that Chrissie finally left this world on Friday, April 18th, the anniversary of our 1906 event. Chrissie now rests in sublime peace. For those who knew her, she will continue to live on in our fond and loving memories of her.

 

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