Aina Senfelds

Aina Senfelds, 95, formerly of Fort Atkinson, died peacefully on December 29, 2024, at Milestone Senior Living, in Woodruff. She was born February 10, 1929, to Anna and Janis Pubulis in Valka, Latvia. She spent her early childhood with her family in their beautiful home by the Gauja river, the longest river in Latvia.

Around the age of 15, during the time World War ll was ending, the Soviet Red Army was advancing into Latvia as part of the Baltic Offensive and began to reoccupy the country. Anyone who didn’t get out in time would be under Soviet rule. Aina, along with her mother, sister, and one of two brothers, escaped and sought refuge in a displaced persons camp in Dillingen, Germany. Aina’s father, Janis, was an officer. He was taken from their home and never seen again, a victim of repression of the Soviet regime.  

Aina graduated from high school while in the camp. This is where she met and married Leon Senfelds on March 9, 1950. In 1951, when the camp was disbanded, the newly married couple were sponsored to come to America by members of the First Congregational Church of Fort Atkinson. They became United States Citizens in 1958. Aina and Leon started work right away at the Larson Canning Company. Aina spent most of her working years at Nasco, in Fort Atkinson, until her retirement. 

Aina enjoyed gardening immensely and had a beautiful array of flowers and shrubs around her home and garden. She loved reading, classical music, family, and her home, which she took meticulous care of. Over the past two years, since moving to Woodruff to be near family, Aina made many new friends at Milestone Senior Living. She especially enjoyed all the activities led by Tammy; from book club and daily morning walks to sing-a-longs, art, group outings, and movies. 

Aina is survived by her children: Maruta Senfelds, David (Lynn) Senfelds; grandchildren: Cameron, Allie, Colin, Alexa Senfelds, Mara Greaney and great-grandchild: Addison. She was preceded in death by her husband: Leon Senfelds; parents: Anna and Janis Pubulis; sister: Monika; brothers: Maris and Ziga. 

A family memorial will be held at a later date. 

From her grandchildren: 

I will always remember grandma for her sharp intellect, determination, and caring nature. She was one of the strongest women I have ever known. She played a big part in my childhood and helped create so many wonderful memories. I will miss her dearly. -Cameron 

My grandma had the most interesting life and unique perspective on it. She was smart and had the best sense of humor. I was proud to be her grandchild and loved spending time with her. Growing up, she was always playing games with us and laughing so hard it made us laugh too. I loved her very much and she will be missed. -Allie 

My grandmother inspired me with her intelligence, humor, creativity, and kindness. She spent hours setting up paper towns with me as a child. One of my favorite things about my grandma was her unforgettable laugh. She’d cry laugh so hard she could hardly breathe! I will forever cherish the traditions she passed down. Thank you, grandma, for the love and laughter you brought to our lives. You will be deeply missed. -Alexa 

One thing I’ll always remember is when I was little and would get up early, before everyone else. I’d find grandma up too. She said she enjoyed peaceful mornings and stretching for 30 minutes because it’s good for your health. She invited me to join her and showed me all the stretches. I feel close to grandma when I’m up early doing stretches. -Colin 

What I remember most was that in quiet moments, when it was just the two of us, grandma shared many of her thoughts, opinions, and stories of the past. In those moments, I got to know her better. My most cherished memories will always be her love of arts and crafts and the stories she shared of her Latvian heritage. Sharing her childhood stories and having her teach me about Latvian customs helped me feel connected to something bigger than myself. I am forever grateful for the beautiful person that my grandma was. I will miss her. -Mara 

The family would like to express a most sincere thank you to the nurses and staff of Milestone Senior Living Woodruff and Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services for the loving care and friendships they provided to Aina. 

Online condolences may be shared at www.nimsgernfuneral.com. Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family.