Elisabeth Bönte, a resident of Sendenhorst, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, passed away on 25 December 2025, at the age of 110 years, 302 days.
Bönte was born in Osnabrück, Lower Saxony, Germany, on 26 February 1915, to parents Albert and Elisabeth (Ella). She had a brother, Theodor. In her youth, she aspired to become a vocational school teacher but left school to care for her ailing mother. Instead, she took a different path and became a tram conductor. The hiring process was quick and straightforward. It was during this job that she met her future husband, who worked as a tram driver. Together, they had two daughters. After World War II, they worked side by side to rebuild what had been destroyed and provided aid to many refugees.
On 8 December 2025, following the passing of Elisabeth Rüterbories, she became the oldest known living person in North Rhine-Westphalia.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Elisabeth Bönte during this difficult time.
