OBIT: Louise Behmerwohld (updated)

Muriel "Louise" Behmerwohld passed Saturday, surrounded by loved ones after a long battle with kidney failure. She was 88.

According to the family, Louise was born and raised in Long Beach and graduated from Long Beach Polytechnic High School. She met the love of her life and soul mate, Jim Behmerwohld when she was 16.  They were married on October 2, 1946.  The inseparable couple shared an exciting life of travel, adventure, business endeavors and community involvement that spanned more than 70 years.

Louise and Jim were known around South Orange County as Santa and Mrs. Claus. Every holiday season they volunteered their time at countless Christmas events bringing enjoyment and memories to those young and old alike. 

Louise was a loving wife, caring mother and doting grandmother.  She was an amazing and unforgettable friend to all that were lucky enough to have met her.

Louise is mom to Steve Behmerwohld, a Parks, Recreation and Senior Services commissioner and general man about town. The city council recently honored him as one of six to soon go on its “wall of recognition” for his volunteer work.

She is also survived by her husband Jim; their daughter Janet Montandon and her husband Doug; their granddaughter Alissa Meads Lipking and her husband David; their grandson Justin Meads and his wife Chrissie; their granddaughter Sara Behmerwohld; and their great-grandchildren Jaden, Julia and Khloe.

The Behmerwohld family will hold a memorial service at 3 p.m. Saturday, May 25 at the Clubhouse of Capistrano Valley Mobile Estates at 26000 Avenida Aeropuerto, San Juan Capistrano. The family is asking that in lieu of flowers and gifts, donations be directed to Family Assistance Charities.