Lillian Ruth Greenlee, 95

Published by editor on Wed, 08/31/2022 - 9:25am

Lillian Ruth (Witte) Greenlee

1927 - 2022

Jesus Christ kept His promise to Lillian Ruth (Witte) Greenlee on 15 August 2022, at the age of 95 years, 4 months and 3 days. She died at her home in South Pasadena, CA. Baptized into the death and Resurrection of Jesus at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hampton, IA, Lillian graduated from Hampton High School and Drake University in Des Moines, IA, where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education. She was a teacher and later held administrative positions at Iowa State College. Lillian was the widow of Dr. John A. Greenlee, Fifth President of California State University, Los Angeles.

Lillian was an active member of The Woman’s Club of South Pasadena for over 56 years. She was also an active member of Historic First Lutheran Church of Pasadena for over 56 years. In both organizations, Lillian held various offices. Lillian was also involved with the Emeriti Association of Cal State, Los Angeles.

Lillian is survived by life-long friend Nellie Peterman of Cedar Falls, IA; cousins Anne Fleming of St. Louis, MO and Kathy Dohrmann of Lake Forest, IL; beloved care givers Lyka and Melita; and a host of other family and friends. She was lovingly ministered to by Mission Hospice of Pasadena.

Placement of her cremains will later occur alongside John at Hampton Cemetery under the direction of Counsell Woodley Funeral Home in Hampton.

Memorials are requested to Historic First Lutheran Church (808 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, CA 91104) or to Concordia University Irvine (1530 Concordia West, Irvine, CA 92612), designated for The John and Lillian Greenlee Endowment.

Lillian’s last words to her pastor were “I want to go Home.” Jesus granted Lillian’s wish.