Maria Aulenbacher – Gerontology Research Group

Full name: Maria Aulenbacher (née Kremer)
Lifespan: 07.11.1909 – 08.02.2023
Age: 113 years, 93 days
Birthplace: Taunus Mountains, Hesse, GERMANY
Last residence: Travelers Rest, South Carolina, USA
Application date: 12.01.2022
Validation date: 02.03.2023
Validation source: Stefan Jamin

Biography

Maria Aulenbacher, born on November 7, 1909, in the picturesque Taunus Mountains of Germany, led a life marked by strength, resilience, and a love of travel. She was the eldest of six siblings and married August Aulenbacher in 1937. The couple was blessed with two children, Birgit Dickerson and Michael Aulenbacher, though Maria would go on to raise them on her own after her husband’s tragic loss in World War II.

Maria’s indomitable spirit took her on journeys around the world. In 2008, she ventured to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in the United States, opening the door to new adventures. She also explored the beauty of Italy, Spain, and Portugal during her later years. Even in her twilight years, she remained an explorer at heart.

Upon reaching her 100th birthday in 2009, Maria resided in Wiesbaden, Hesse, Germany, near one of her surviving sisters. Her life continued to be marked by a sense of wonder and curiosity that transcended generations.

At the age of 101, Maria Aulenbacher embarked on a new chapter, moving to the United States, a journey that added to her remarkable life story. In February 2021, she marked yet another milestone when she received her first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, becoming one of the oldest individuals known to have received the vaccine.

Following the passing of 113-year-old Josefine Ollmann on July 16, 2022, Maria Aulenbacher became the oldest known living German-born person. Her legacy was one of resilience, adaptability, and a profound love of life and adventure.

On February 8, 2023, Maria Aulenbacher peacefully passed away in Travelers Rest, South Carolina, USA, at the remarkable age of 113 years and 93 days. Her longevity was validated posthumously by the Gerontology Research Group on March 2, 2023, preserving her memory as one of the world’s oldest individuals and a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit.

Longevity Recognition

Oldest living person in South Carolina

Validation

The age of Maria Aulenbacher was verified by Stefan Jamin, GRG-Germany Correspondent, and validated by the Gerontology Research Group (GRG) as of March 2, 2023.