Obituary of Liis Hensel

Liis Kukk Hensel passed peacefully at home on January 5, 2016 after an extended illness due to frontal lobe dementia. Born May 25, 1938 in Tartu, Estonia, Liis emigrated to the United States from Bamberg, Germany, where her family had fled during the Russian occupation of Estonia. She entered the United States in 1949 through Boston. The family, sponsored by Seabrook Farms and the Bridgeton Lutheran Church, settled in Seabrook, NJ, where Liis attended elementary school. Later having moved to Vineland, Liis graduated with honors from Vineland High School, Class of 1956. It was there that she met her future husband. She was employed as a legal secretary by John O. Milstead, Esq., then the Milstead and McElroy, and later the Milstead and Ridgeway law firms in Vineland. Liis began working for "Mr. Milstead" as part of the work/study program while in high school and where she remained until her retirement in 1994. She was also a part owner with her husband Eric of Hensel Farms in Milmay, where she tirelessly gave of her time, energy and support. Liis is survived by her husband of 57 years, Eric M. Hensel; her children Karen Yacovelli (Michael), Eric R. Hensel (Lois) and Michele Sangataldo (Brian); her grandchildren Michael E. Yacovelli (Caitlin), Christa Shaughnessy (Steven), Nicolette and Eric Hensel, Rocco, Gabrielle and Isabella Sangataldo; and her great grandchildren Carson and James Shaughnessy and Anna Yacovelli. Liis is also survived by her sister Mal Ippolito (Ross) and several nieces and nephews, sisters and brothers in law. Liis was predeceased by her parents Ernst and Linda Kukk, and her in laws, Erich and Cecelia Hensel. The family is grateful for the devoted care provided for many years by her caretakers Ronnie Baldiserra and Susan Borlak. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Gifts in Liis's memory may be made to the Milmay Volunteer Fire Company, Box 90, Milmay, NJ 08340; Saint Mary's School, 735 Union Rd, Vineland NJ 08360; or the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 2384 E. Landis Ave., Vineland, NJ 08360.