Elfriede Jourdan

Longtime Jackson resident, Elfriede Jourdan, died in her Jackson home on December 26, 2012 at age 92. Born Elfriede Anna Martin on November 8, 1920 in Tuttlingen, Germany to Ernst and Anna Martin, Elfriede Jourdan was the youngest of six children. In Germany, she excelled in school and sports, worked at her parents' grocery market, and as a book keeper. In 1942, Elfriede married Wilhelm Mattheis, but later divorced. In 1950, she married Renee Jourdan, but later divorced. Elfriede celebrated her 30th Birthday on a ship while traveling across the Atlantic Ocean to immigrate to the United States. After a short stop in Buffalo, NY to visit her brother, Ewald, she traveled straight to Jackson Hole in late 1950. Upon arrival in Jackson, she worked for her other brother, Al, at his business, Teton Laundry, which is now High Country Linen. With the help of Felix Buchenroth and Jackson State Bank, Elfriede was able to purchase Quality Cleaners in 1954, at the corner of King St. and Broadway Ave. Next to Quality Cleaners she built and made a home, which, years later, she commercially leased out to Off Broadway restaurant. After having cleaned and cared for many Navajo rugs at her dry cleaners, Elfriede became interested in, and gained a true affinity for, American Indian artwork of all kinds. In 1976, Elfriede and her son, Gary Mattheis, opened Two Grey Hills Indian Arts and Jewelry. Today, Two Grey Hills is still owned and operated by her son at its original location. Elfriede Jourdan was a skier, and was proud to have worked part time as a translator when Swiss experts were helping to install Jackson Hole's original aerial tram. Although she was a skilled gymnast and soccer standout in her youth, golf became her favorite activity later in life. She hit the links regularly through her late 80's, and still enjoyed watching golf on television until her final few weeks. Elfriede Jourdan was known for her strong work ethic, diligent attention to detail, and close relationships with her many, many customers. Ever since she started delivering groceries after school as a child, she always loved being in business and took pride in caring for and serving her customers. More importantly, she will long be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and generosity of self. Elfriede truly was a gift to us all; and she will be deeply missed. Elfriede Jourdan was preceded in death by all of her siblings, as well as her son, Christian Jourdan. She is survived by her son, Gary (Kay) Mattheis; her three grandsons, Mike, Steve (Janie), and Scot Mattheis; and two great-grandchildren, Vivienne and Sigmund Mattheis. Services will be held at the Presbyterian Church of Jackson Hole (1251 South Park Loop Rd.) on Wednesday January 2, 2013 at 11:00am. Contributions in Elfriede's name may be made to the Senior Center of Jackson Hole or any charity of your choice.

---