Gabriele Carola Sikkema

Gabriele Carola Wien Sikkema

11/12/1958 – 09/28/2016

            Gabriele (Gabi) was born in Nordhorn, Germany to Amadeus Gabriel Wien and Ingeborg Förster Wien.  After completing high school, Gabi came to Salt Lake City as an au pair, and to broaden her knowledge of English.

            Soon she started dating Elzard Sikkema. Elzard had emigrated from Holland, being born in a village within 40 kilometers of where Gabi was born.

The two married, and later welcomed a son (Elzard Jr.) and two daughters (Anja and Katie) to the family.  The Sikkema family loved being active, and especially enjoyed taking trips to Silver Lake, Bear Lake, Yellowstone, and Jackson Hole.  Gabi and Elzard’s parents often flew from Europe to visit, enjoying many vacations together. Although Gabi and Elzard later divorced, the two remained close friends.  

            Gabi’s children fondly remember the young mother stealing hugs and kisses, reading bedtime stories, and singing and reciting German lullabies and nursery rhymes. Gabi recognized her independent spirit in each of her children, and never stood in the way of what they wanted to do.  She taught them to be loving and strong.

            For the last 15 years, Gabi was committed to Allan Larson.  The two frequently travelled, especially to Mesquite so Gabi could be surrounded by the southwest landscapes that she loved.  They spent time with many friends, who became family too.

            Gabi was often found gardening.  Her yard was always well maintained and bursting with color. She was selfless, light hearted and accepting of all.  Having previously survived breast cancer, Gabi was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in May of 2014.  During all of her treatments, ailments, and hard times, Gabi never once complained.  She was courageous and strong until the very end.  Gabi left this world and her family much too soon.  She will be lovingly remembered and missed every day.

            Gabi is survived by her three children, Elzard Jr. (Chandra), Anja, and Katie (Josh); grandson Collin (Anja); her parents, and three siblings (Wolfgang (Siggi), Marion (Joachim), and Regine (Marty)); Elzard Sr.; and her partner Allan Larson.  In accordance with Gabi’s wishes, no public memorial service will be held.  If you would like to pay your respects, please spend some time outside and enjoy the beautiful fall weather.  That is where Gabi will be.