Hedwig Zaugg, the oldest known living person in Switzerland, dies at 111
The Gerontology Research Group (GRG) is saddened to reported that Mrs. Hedwig Zaugg, the oldest known living person in Switzerland, sadly passed away in Huttwil, Canton of Bern on 28 October 2026 at the final age of 111 years and 164 days.
Hedwig Zaugg was born in Walterswil, Canton of Bern, Switzerland, on 17 May 1915.
In 1941, at the age of 26, she married Andreas Zaugg. They welcomed their first daughter, Marianne, in 1944, followed by their second daughter, Katharina, in 1949. That same year, Andreas gave Hedwig a sewing and knitting machine to use at home. Also in 1949, the couple took over the stamping mill previously run by Hedwig’s father. Her husband died in 1992.
For Hedwig’s 80th birthday, she received a new bicycle. However, as she grew older, cycling became a bit too risky. When she no longer had a bike, she occasionally hitchhiked. She was also an avid gardener – tending to her garden with dedication for more than 100 years.
In October 2020, she moved into a senior citizens’ home in Huttwil.
On 17 May 2025, Hedwig celebrated her 110th birthday, becoming a supercentenarian.
On 20 October 2025, following the death of 110-year-old Francine Grandjean of Vaud, Hedwig became the oldest known living person in Switzerland.
As of her 111th birthday in May 2026, she remained in good spirits.
Hedwig Zaugg passed away in Huttwil, Canton of Bern, Switzerland, on 28 October 2026, at the age of 111 years and 164 days. Following her death, then 111-year-old Paulina Hufschmid (born 2 October 1915) of Basel-Landschaft became the oldest known living person in Switzerland.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Mrs. Hedwig Zaugg during this difficult time.
LINKS
1. La doyenne suisse est décédée à l’âge de 111 ans
2. Trauer um die älteste Schweizerin: Hedwig «Mubli» Zaugg aus dem Kanton Bern ist mit 111 Jahren gestorben (Instagram post)