Ilia Minder

April 14, 1940 – January 25, 2026

On Sunday, January 25, 2026, Ilia Minder—loving wife, devoted mother of two, and cherished grandmother—passed away at John Muir Hospital in Walnut Creek at the age of 85.

Ilia was born on April 14, 1940, in Oakland, California, to Ilio and Albertina Benassini. She later moved with her family to Concord, where they owned and operated a walnut orchard for many years. Ilia treasured her childhood on the orchard and often shared fond stories of helping her father and caring for the many animals she adored.

She graduated from Mt. Diablo High School and went on to earn her cosmetology license, working in a salon for several years. It was during this time that she met the love of her life, Fritz. They began their life together in a small condo in Concord before purchasing a home on the same street as her parents in the 1970s—a home where they built a lifetime of memories and remained ever since.

Ilia always dreamed of becoming a mother. She and Fritz welcomed their son, Fritz Jr., one year after they were married, and their daughter, Gina, just fifteen months later. Ilia chose to leave her career to become a stay-at-home mother, dedicating herself wholeheartedly to her family. Though she stepped away from the salon, she continued doing hair for family and friends for many years.

While Fritz was the captain of his ship at work, Ilia was truly the captain of the household—ensuring that everything ran smoothly and that her children and husband had all they needed. She was the heart of the home.

Ilia also loved to travel. The family shared countless cherished memories camping in their trailer and exploring destinations near and far. After their children were grown, Ilia and Fritz continued their adventures together in their fifth-wheel trailer and on cruise ships, always eager for their next journey.

Ilia will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family, her active involvement in the Druids Mt. Diablo Circle, her incredible cooking, her infectious laugh, and her boundless love for her children and grandson. She is survived by her son, Fritz Jr.; her daughter, Gina; and her beloved grandson, Aiden, whom she adored more than life itself.

Ilia’s Celebration of Life will be a joint service honoring both her and her beloved husband, Fritz. Due to the pandemic, the family was unable to hold Fritz’s memorial at the time of his passing, and Ilia requested that they be celebrated together. The service will be held at the Concord Senior Center, Wisteria Hall, on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

Please RSVP to Gina Minder-Maldonado at gminder17@yahoo.com

by February 28 if you plan to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly invites those who wish to honor Fritz and Ilia’s memory to consider making a donation in their name to one of the following organizations, which support causes close to their hearts:

American Heart Association

https://shorturl.at/YkjyW

American Lung Association

https://shorturl.at/Ap1qY

Thank you for surrounding our family with love, prayers, and support. Your presence and kindness mean more than words can express.

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