Beatrix M. Tannian

Beatrix M. Tannian, age 88, a long-time resident of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully in her sleep on the morning of November 18, 2024, at Brackenville Complete Care in Hockessin, Delaware.

Born on November 26, 1935, in Seligenstadt, Germany, Beatrix was one of eleven children born to the late Hermann Josef Laube and Marga Stoeckle Laube. She grew up in Germany during the tumultuous years of WWII, a time that instilled in her a strong sense of resilience and compassion. Beatrix attended university in Germany and became a teacher.

In May of 1962, Beatrix’s life took a new and beautiful turn when she married Dr. Francis X. Tannian, her beloved husband of 62 years. They were introduced in Seligenstadt, Germany, through her brother, Gottfried Laube. After Francis was transferred back to the United States, they continued their connection through heartfelt letters, until they were reunited in Seligenstadt, Germany, where they married and began their life together.

Following their wedding, Beatrix and Francis moved back to the United States, starting their journey in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and eventually settling in Newark, Delaware, in 1966. Beatrix and Francis shared a deep love for their family, of their Roman Catholic faith and their community. Together, they raised four children—Monica, Margaret Joyce, Mark, and Michele — and made sure that their children spoke German and stayed connected to their German roots by spending time at the German “Sängerbund.”

Beatrix had a deep love for nature and music, both of which were vital parts of her life. She was a true “DOER.” Whether it was selecting music and becoming the choir director at the Thomas Moore Oratory in Newark, DE, or using her considerable skill and creativity to landscape their front yard and The Oratory, Beatrix’s dedication to creating beauty was evident. Her passion for the outdoors was matched only by her love of music.

Beatrix and Francis shared a love for entertaining. They often welcomed guests from the University, including international students who could not return home for the holidays, into their home. The Tannian household was filled with laughter and good times, offering comfort to those far from their own families. Beatrix took great joy in creating delicious meals and was always willing to try new recipes to bring great food to those around her.

Her adventurousness also led her to explore the great outdoors with her family. Beatrix took the entire family hiking all over the U.S., always choosing new trails and never hiking the same one twice. She was part of a German-American group of families called “Die “Wandervögel” who hiked many parts of the Appalachian Trail together. With all the kids, adults, tasty snacks, and a flask of red wine for the summit, their hiking adventures were filled with camaraderie, fun, and the occasional blister. Beatrix encouraged the family to travel to Europe together. These trips took them to Austria, Switzerland, Italy, France, and, of course, Germany. These family journeys created lasting memories and strengthened the bond between generations.

Beatrix is survived by her devoted husband, Dr. Francis X. Tannian, and their children Monica Tannian, Margaret Joyce Tannian, Mark and Marcia Tannian, and Michele Smith; siblings, Konrad Laube, Klaus Laube (Veronika), Angelika Waldmueller (Richard), and Gabriele Laube; as well as two grandchildren, Declan and Liam Smith. She is also survived by other cherished family members both in the United States and Germany. Beatrix was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Doug Smith, who was the beloved husband of her daughter, Michele Smith.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff at Brackenville Complete Care for their compassionate care and support during Beatrix’s final days.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10 am until 11 am on Friday, December 6, 2024, at St. Catherine of Siena R.C. Church, 2503 Centerville Road, Wilmington, DE 19808, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11:00 am. Family and friends are invited to attend and celebrate Beatrix’s remarkable life. Interment will be held privately in Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Water is Life Kenya, 314 East Main Street, Kelway Plaza, Suite #2, Newark, DE 19711 or online by clicking here.

Beatrix’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Though her heartbeat has ceased, the love she gave will continue to guide us, and her presence will remain forever in our hearts.