Albert Einstein 77 - Tragedy Strikes

Elsa's daughter, Ilse who lived in Paris With her husband Rudolf Kayser, Took seriously ill in 1934. Elsa rushed to Paris to be with her daughter. But unfortunately, Ilse never recovered, She passed away at a young age of thirty seven, Leaving Elsa completely distraught and saddened. Though Elsa returned back to Princeton, She could never overcome her daughter's loss. She was no more the bubbly, talkative person, With zest for life and its social engagements. In 1935, Einstein purchased a new house in Princeton. This house, in 112 Mercer Street, became the residence For Einstein and his large family, for the rest of their lives. Unfortunately, Elsa could not enjoy living in this house for long. She became seriously sick with heart and kidney ailment. On 20th December,1936, just two years after her daughter Ilse's death, At the age of 60, Elsa breathed her last, leaving Einstein a widower For the next twenty years of his life. After Elsa's death, Einstein wrote that he became "bear like remaining in his den, And no more socialising like he did when Elsa was alive"! Elsa was a lucky charm in Einstein's life. With her vivacious and articulate personality. She stood thick and thin, for better or for worse, with her husband, Standing strongly by his side, travelling with him everywhere, Managing all his affairs, most faithfully, throughout her life. She was a gem of a lady who took pride in her husband's success, And let the brilliance of his glory, illuminate her life as well with joy. A Biographical Poem