Ina Hausner

November 16, 1929 - June 10, 2021

Ina Hausner passed away peacefully in her San Francisco home June 10 after an extended convalescence. She was a warm, gentle, and determined lady – a product of the Great Depression – who survived a lifetime of love and loss but always managed to find happiness. Her wish to age in place was made possible by several very kind and thoughtful caregivers, generous friends she made during her 91 years, and by NEXT Village SF.

Ina Hanna Hertzberg was born November 16, 1929, one month after the start of the Great Depression. She grew up in Brooklyn, New York, where her father was a mail carrier and her mother a homemaker and excellent cook. As a young woman she moved to San Francisco where she met her husband, Walter Hausner. Ina worked as a secretary and receptionist, became an accomplished pianist, played concerts at public events, travelled with Walter around the state, and made friends wherever she went.

After retiring from Letterman Hospital, Ina developed a regular schedule of piano-playing and lunches at neighborhood centers, including The San Francisco Senior Center in Aquatic Park and Telegraph Hill Neighborhood Center. She joined NEXT Village SF, who sent volunteers to shop for her and help her stay in her apartment. For the past two years Ina received care from several wonderful caregivers from Aviva In-Home Care and from Soko Wright and Lolo Draunidalo.

Ina was preceded in death by her father William, her mother Esther (“Essie”), and her husband Walter. She is survived by her daughter Laurie Finestone, grandson Miles Henderson Smith, step-daughter Adele Chupp, step-granddaughter Julia Rettig, and niece Sharon Root.

There will be a celebration of life for Ina Friday, July 23, from 1:00 – 3:00 PM in the Senior Center at Telegraph Hill Neighborhood Center, 660 Lombard Street, San Francisco. Everyone who knew Ina is welcome to attend.