Eileen D. Heinrich's Obituary
Eileen Denise Heinrich of La Jolla, California died peacefully on August 13th, 2018 in La Jolla, California. She was 84 years old; a native of the Clayton, MO, and was preceded in death by her husband, Morton Heinrich, who died on January 3rd, 2018. Eileen graduated from Clayton High in 1951. She moved to California shortly after graduation from high school with her parents, settling in Beverly Hills, California. Eileen met the love of her life on a blind date in Los Angeles and married Morton Heinrich on August 14th, 1955. The day after she died would have been their 63rd Anniversary.Eileen & Mort lived in North Hollywood, Pasadena, and La Jolla – all in Southern California – as well as Key West, Florida, while raising two wonderful children.After her children were grown, Eileen overcame significant barriers and challenges to attend the Western State University law school. She graduated from law school and passed the California bar in 1989, at the age of 56. During the next ten years, she worked for San Diego Senior Citizens Legal Services.Eileen was an avid Contract Bridge player and taught bridge in both Pasadena and La Jolla. In 1966, she surprised her husband with a new Fire Engine Red 1966 Ford Mustang coupe, which she bought with her earnings from her bridge classes. In 1970, both she and her husband were named Life Masters by the American Contract Bridge League and continued to play into their 80’s. Eileen had a passion for fine food and was a fabulous cook. She was an avid follower of the “Sport of Kings”. Eileen & Mort owned thoroughbred horses, and they were a member of Jim Penny’s stables, in Yakima, Washington. She loved to play blackjack and was once banned from the MGM Grand hotel, after winning $75,000, for being a ‘skilled player’. She was a die-hard Padres & Chargers fan.She is survived by her son, retired Admiral Mark Heinrich of Aliso Viejo, CA; and her daughter, Marjorie Heinrich, a lawyer, of Oakland, California. She leaves behind two grandchildren – Jared Heinrich and Colin Heinrich – both of New York City.Donations in Eileen Heinrich’s behalf can be made to The Arthritis Foundation. A small, private family gathering is planned.
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