Maria was born in Freiburg in 1954 and grew up with three siblings on a small farm. For almost forty years she was a primary school teacher – many former pupils still greet her today. Her great loves were her garden, her grandchildren and long Sunday walks.

Every spring she planted lavender along the path. “So you know the way home,” she used to say.

Three children, five grandchildren and a table that always had a free seat.