Obituary of Gundi Brandstatter

Gundi Brandstatter 71, of State College died Saturday, August 31, 2013 at Mount Nittany Medical Center, State College. Born February 4, 1942 in Bolzano, Italy daughter of the late Josef and Helene Untertrifaller Fuchs. On October 9, 1971 in Innsbruck, Austria she married Herwig "Brandy" Brandstatter who survives. She is also survived by a daughter Uta Brandstatter and her partner Barbara Collett of Asheville, NC and a son Bernd J. Brandstatter and his wife Amy of Bellefonte. Also surviving is a sister Jutta Bichler and her husband Dr. Alfred Bichler of Bad Ischl, Austria. Gundi was preceded in death by three sisters, Gerta Fuchs, Traudl Kober and Christl Kraft - Kinz. Gundi was co-owner and co-operator of Herwigs Austrian Bistro. She was of the Catholic Faith In 1981, Gundi and her family were on their way to Australia when they stopped in State College and never left because she loved it here so much. Prior to moving to State College, Gundi lived most of her life in Igls (near Innsbruck, Austria). There she met and married Herwig "Brandy" Brandstatter in 1971. Together the adventurous couple raised two children and traveled the world. In Austria, Gundi enjoyed hiking in the Alps, playing piano, attending Opera performances and skiing. After moving to State College, Gundi became an active member of the Rotary Club. She especially enjoyed participating in the club's cultural exchange program, hosting many international Rotarians at her home. Gundi had a green thumb matched by few. She enjoyed working in the garden and was rewarded with beautiful flowers and bountiful harvests. Other hobbies included acing German crossword puzzles, listening to Classical music, bird watching, cruises and traveling, collecting antiques, and eating rather generous portions of Feta cheese. In her later years, Gundi most enjoyed working in the family restaurant, Herwig's Austrian Bistro. She was the friendly face behind the counter who explained the menu and took customers' orders. She will also be remembered for her famous "Apfel Strudel". Despite suffering from severe Rheumatoid Arthritis, Gundi enjoyed frequent walks at Tudek Park. She will be missed very much by her family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial Contributions may be made to the Centre Region Parks and Recreation Authority, Gundi Branstatter Tudek Park Bench Memorial Fund, 2643 Gateway Drive #1, State College, PA 16801. Services will be private at the convenience of the family with the Reverend Renee Ford officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of the Koch Funeral Home. Online condolences and signing of the guest book can be made at www.kochfuneralhome.com.