Helma Margarete Ewald, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2025, in Manteca, California. She was born on August 27, 1934, in Aschaffenburg, Bavaria, Germany, to her parents Karl Peter Bronner and Anna Margarete (Homeijer) Bronner.

   Helma married the love of her life, Paul James Ewald, on March 24, 1965. They shared a beautiful life together until his passing on February 9, 1980. She is also preceded in death by her infant son, Otto Karl Ewald, who passed in 1966, and her brother, George Bronner.

   Helma is survived by her children: Linda Ewald of Dayton, Ohio; Paul Michael Robert Ewald of Manteca; and Paul Karl Peter Ewald of Manteca. She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren; Toby, Helma, Leslie, and Christopher, as well as her adored great-grandchildren; Catherine, Anna, and Evee.

   A professional cook for more than 30 years, Helma poured her skill, passion, and precision into every dish she created. She was adventurous and spirited, traveling to many countries

throughout her life and embracing each new experience with enthusiasm. Whatever Helma set her mind to, she approached it with determination and exceptional success. She lived life on her own terms, vibrantly, fully, and without hesitation.

   In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Helma’s honor to The Ripon Project Alley Cat or any charity dedicated to helping homeless cats an expression of her lifelong love for animals.

Helma’s legacy of strength, independence, warmth, and dedication will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin

Friday, January 9, 2026