Alice Estelle Zurlinden

Alice Estelle Zurlinden, née German, passed away on October 11, 2026, in Fairfield Township, Ohio, at the age of 65. She was born on November 26, 1960, in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Alice will be remembered as a loyal, compassionate, and caring woman whose love for her family shaped the course of her life. She was always ready to stand up for the people she loved, and that steadfast devotion was felt deeply by those closest to her. She worked as a bus driver, and in every part of her life she carried herself with the same dependable spirit and generous heart that became her hallmark.

She found joy in the simple, personal things that made life bright, and she especially loved the color purple. Alice was a gifted storyteller within her family, sharing stories that became cherished favorites through the years, including the unforgettable tales of Ishkabibble and Shaharizard the birds who knew everything and told Alice everything. Those stories, told in her own way, brought laughter, warmth, and a sense of togetherness that will remain with her family for years to come.

More than anything, Alice centered her life on the people she loved. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were especially important to her, and she was known for her boundless love for them. She was a hands-on grandma who gave her time and attention freely, and she spent meaningful, memorable time with her grandchildren, creating moments they will carry with them always. The love she gave her family was a defining part of her life, and it lives on in the memories she helped create.

For 47 years, Alice and Jim built a life side by side, and their love never faded. Through every season, it remained a steady, enduring bond—the kind of love that time could never lessen.

Alice is survived by her beloved husband, James Norbert Zurlinden; her son James “Jay” Zurlinden; and her daughter-in-law, Cassie Zurlinden. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Gabrielle Zurlinden (Faibeon), Kylie Croson (Dayvon), Chrystian Frey (Alana), Brayden Zurlinden, and Chloe Zurlinden. Her love continues through her great-grandchildren, Alaia, Saint, and Kyren. She is also survived by her older brother, Ben German. Each of them knew her as a source of strength, care, and unwavering love, and each carries forward a part of her spirit.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bernard and Alice German; her brothers, Frank German and Ric German; and her grandson, James Jayden Zurlinden. Alice also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who she loved dearly.

Alice’s life was marked by devotion, tenderness, and a fierce love for family. She leaves behind stories that will still be told, memories that will still be treasured, and a family that was made stronger by her care. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Funeral services will be held at Hodapp Funeral Home, 8815 Cincinnati Columbus Road, West Chester, OH 45069.

Visitation will be Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. The service will follow from 10:30 to 11:00 a.m.

Everyone is welcome to join us for a celebration of life at Jay and Cassie’s home, 5614 Heron Drive, West Chester, OH 45069, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family knows Alice would want donations to be made to her grandson’s foundation:

JaydenZ Foundation www.jaydenzfoundation.org