Erika Hoppenthaler Walden

Erika Hoppenthaler Walden - age 92 of Gladstone and formerly of Cameron and Altamont, passed away Wednesday afternoon, March 13, 2024, at Linden Woods Village in Gladstone, Missouri. Erika was born on December 23, 1931, the daughter of Ernst and Anna (Wirth) Walther in Balaceana, Romania. She was raised in the Catholic faith. On February 16th, 1950, she was united in marriage to Josef Hoppenthaler in Austria. Erika and Josef came to the United States in 1952. They settled first in Michigan then to Kansas City and finally on the farm in Altamont, near Lake Viking. Erika began working for Lee Wald in Kansas City as a seamstress. Alongside her husband, Josef they operated the Lanternderl Inn Restaurant at Lake Viking. Erika was a wonderful homemaker, wife and mother; she had a kind heart and was a loving woman. She was an excellent cook and baker. Erika loved gardening and had a green thumb; she could grow anything green. While living in Cameron she was featured as the "Garden of the Month" Wonderful cook and baker. She also did all kinds of needlework.  Josef passed away in 1991. In 1997, she married William Walden and he preceded her in death. Erika will be dearly missed. 

Erika was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Josef and William; son, Edward Hoppenthaler; siblings, Erwin Walther and Herta Long.  She is survived by her children, Joseph (Terry) Hoppenthaler of Parkville, MO, Jerry Hoppenthaler of Cameron, MO and Jeff Hoppenthaler of Altamont, MO; five grandchildren; great-grandchildren and other extended family members.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the donor's choice in care of the funeral home. A service celebrating Erika's life will be held at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at Stith Funeral Home in Gallatin.  The family will gather with friends one-hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Friends may call from 11 AM to 5 PM, Monday at the funeral home. Burial will follow the services at Hillcrest Cemetery in Gallatin. Arrangements entrusted to the care and direction of Stith Funeral Home in Gallatin (660) 663-2117. Online guestbook at www.stithfamilyfunerals.com

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