Pauline Dorothy Hirsekorn

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Pauline Dorothy Hirsekorn, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend who peacefully left us on February 25, 2025 at the age of 93.

Pauline was born in Kettering, England. The early part of her life was spent in London, England; while her father served as a Coldstream Guard at Buckingham Place. Although life was not easy during World War II, her resiliency gave her strength to appreciate life to its fullest.

Singing was her passion. She met husband U.S. Army Corporal Theodore Otto Hirsekorn (Miami, FL) in 1952 while singing to the American troops stationed at Royal Airforce Base (RAF) Chevelston, Wellingbourough, UK. Shortly after, she relocated to Miami where they married and had nine children.

Eventually, Pauline settled in San Diego, CA, where she lived at the Lions Community Manor in the Gaslamp District. She worked at the Westgate Hotel for many years, and sang at their Christmas parties. Her compassion for helping people led her to work in various convalescent facilities and home healthcare caring for patients at the end of their lives. 

Along with her passion for singing, she enjoyed a variety of music, and going to the gym. Family was the most important thing to her and her faith in Jesus Christ was always the guiding principle by which she lived her life.

She is survived by her sister Patty Wright (Alpena, MI); children, Ted Hirsekorn (San Diego, CA); Maxine York (San Diego, CA); Marcel Wilmont (Meridian, ID); Mary Cook (San Diego, CA); Melinda Lambkin (Charlotte, NC); her cherished grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, and extended family across the UK.

Pauline is preceded in death by her parents, William and Priscilla Hardwick, four sisters, Jessie Childs, Betty Smith, Irene Garrett, Lilly Williamson, and twin brother Peter Hardwick, as well as daughters, Karen Hirsekorn, Michelle Hirsekorn, Melisa Burke, and son Todd Hirsekorn.

A woman of immense love, kindness, and strength, she touched the lives of all who knew her. Her memory will forever be a source of love and inspiration for her family and friends, who will miss her dearly. May her legacy continue to shine brightly and her memory be a blessing.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. 

The family would like to express our thanks for the care given by AccentCare Hospice & Palliative Care of California – San Diego.