“Lynn” was born on May 12, 1930, in Fredericksburg, TX, to Lionel T Fiedler and Olga Walter. Despite the early loss of her mother when she was just three years old, Lynn was surrounded by the love and support of her siblings, helping to shape her into the resilient woman she became.
In Mission, TX, while working as a telephone operator, Lynn’s life took a beautiful turn when, on May 5, 1951, she met a man on a blind date from Wisconsin. Milbert “Bill” Held soon captured her heart, and they were married on November 10, 1951. God blessed them with three wonderful children: Greg, Valerie, and Ronnie.
Lynn’s life was deeply rooted in faith, a guiding light that shaped her journey through joy and sorrow alike. Her unwavering belief provided solace and strength during life's trials, including the profound loss of her eldest son, Gregory William, in 1972.
Lynn's faith was not just a passive aspect of her life; it was the cornerstone of her resilience, providing her with hope and comfort even in the darkest moments. She was an active member of Advent Lutheran Church and loved the family she made there.
Also, central to Lynn's life was her marriage to Bill, a union marked by love, companionship, respect and mutual devotion. Together, they weathered life's storms, drawing strength from each other and their shared faith. Their bond was a testament to the enduring power of love, transcending challenges and hardships.
Lynn is preceded in death by her eldest son, Greg; her husband of 51 years, Bill in 2003; and her six brothers and two sisters.
Ethlyn is survived by her daughter, Valerie Held Oden, and husband Ted, and son Ronald Lee Held and wife Cindy. She leaves behind a cherished legacy through her seven granddaughters: Courtney, Layne, Carly, Kylie, Caty, Chelsey, and Quinn.
Her memory continues to thrive through her twelve great-grandchildren: Dakota, Jackson, Joanna, Mia, Elliot, Ella, Frida, Archer, Ava, Leah, Isaac, and Samuel.
To them, she was simply Oma.
The Oma that was brave enough to pile 7 grandchildren in a Ford Aerostar and take them to Chuck E Cheese by herself. The Oma that allowed them to tape cut up paper all over her wooden walls. The Oma that watched countless impromptu performances and recitals. All of which were mediocre at best. The Oma that created a personalized Christmas stocking for each grandchild.
The best Oma any kid could have asked for.
Lynn personified what it means to be a family matriarch. She was the facilitator of fun. The memory maker.
Lynn was an avid gardener, volunteer, and traveler. She and Bill saw many parts of the world together. Her sweet tooth was legendary, and her biscuit cake recipe is a favorite of many.
She was always doing something with her hands, and she took pride in creating a welcoming and loving home. And that home held many hallway races, Uno battles and games of Old Maid. She created a magical Christmas wonderland every year and was the consummate host.
Lynn’s legacy will endure in the warmth of holiday traditions, the joy of shared laughter, and the bonds of family strengthened by her love and presence.
A visitation for Ethlyn will be held Wednesday, June 12, 2024 from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at Advent Lutheran Church, 5820 Pinemont Dr, Houston, TX 77092. A funeral service will occur Wednesday, June 12, 2024 from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, 5820 Pinemont Dr, Houston, TX 77092. A committal service will occur Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery, 12800 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77077.
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