Gesa Payne's Obituary
Gesa was born in Berlin, Germany, in 1939. She spent her childhood with the War and its aftermath as a constant presence. Soon after the War, she escaped in the night from East Germany with her mother, sister, and brother to live with extended family in their home along the Baltic Sea. Although her childhood was strained, she was happy and was passionate about acquiring knowledge. As a young, gifted student she loved the challenges of trying to be the first in her class–and as a girl at that! After completing her later school years in Hamburg, she left for the University of Heidelberg. In 1963, she moved with her new baby and her new husband to her new life in the United States.
Gesa raised her three girls–Carol, Irene, and Sonia–who she loved immensely–in the Hayward area. She created a very successful tax consulting business and earned the trust and admiration of countless clients. She was a very active community leader with Hayward Soroptimist International, a volunteer group providing women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment. She enjoyed spending time with her dear friends of the Hayward Firefolks, a social organization of former Hayward firefighters and their spouses.
In 2005, Gesa moved to Lincoln, CA, with her partner Bernie Damele, where she retired to live in her dream home. She was often spotted driving down the lanes in her golf cart, waving hello to all her friends. She enjoyed life with a vibrant spirit and a love for play. Gesa enjoyed many activities: golf, pickleball, table tennis, live entertainment shows, local dining, and “Happy Hour”. Most of all, she lived for Bridge–4 days a week! All her life, Gesa enjoyed challenging her brain all the while in kinship with family, friends, and fellow gamers. She was serious about Bridge and serious about having fun.
In the early hours on November 25, 2025, Gesa passed away in her sleep, in the warmth of her beloved home, and lovingly surrounded by her three daughters and their families. She has left our days, and lives in our hearts forever.
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