Frieda Braun (Stanke)

June 23, 1935-April 20, 2026

Frieda Braun (Stanke), 90, of Linden, New Jersey, entered eternal peace on Monday, April 20, 2026.

Born in Linden, NJ, Frieda spent her entire life in the community she loved and was a graduate of Linden High School. In her early years, she was an accomplished entertainer who played several instruments and was known as a country singer and the "Queen of Yodeling." Performing under the stage name Lee Gibbs, she appeared at venues in Nashville, including the Grand Ole Opry on occasion, and performed throughout the Northeast. Later, she turned her energy to investing, building an apartment building in Linden and managing her properties thereafter.

Frieda was predeceased by her parents, Henry Stanke and Emma (Falkenberg) Stanke. She was formerly married to Dieter Braun. She is survived by her daughter, Alison Braun.

She was one of five siblings. Her brother Henry Stanke survives her. She was predeceased by her brothers Arthur Stanke and Alfred Stanke, and by her sister Olga Stanke Vaniska. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews:, William Stanke, Elaine Vaniska Philippa, and retired Police Chief Daniel Vaniska.

Arrangements are under the care of Leonard-Lee Funeral Home, 301 East Blancke Street, Linden, NJ 07036. At Frieda's request, there will be no viewing. A memorial will be held at Rosedale Memorial Park, East Linden Ave, Linden, NJ, with the interment of Frieda's ashes; Saturday, May 2nd in the Chapel of Faith at 11a.m.

In lieu of flowers, Frieda and her family ask that donations be made to a charity of your choice in her memory.