When people search for Maria Luise von Quistorp, Maria von Braun, or Wernher von Braun’s wife, they are usually looking for clear answers about who she was, her role in history, and recent information about her death.
Maria Luise von Quistorp von Braun was more than the wife of a famous scientist. She lived through war, migration, and global change, and later became a respected figure in the American space community. Her life connects personal history with one of the most significant scientific eras of the 20th century.
This article presents verified facts only, written clearly and respectfully.
Who Was Maria Luise von Quistorp?
Maria Luise von Quistorp, later known as Maria von Braun, was the wife of renowned aerospace engineer Wernher von Braun. She was born in Germany, lived through World War II, and later settled in the United States, where she spent most of her adult life.
She is remembered not only as Wernher von Braun’s spouse but also as a philanthropist, community supporter, and advocate for space education, particularly in Huntsville, Alabama.
Quick Facts: Maria Luise von Quistorp von Braun
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Maria Irmengard Emmy Luise Gisela von Quistorp |
| Also Known As | Maria Luise von Quistorp, Maria von Braun |
| Date of Birth | June 10, 1928 |
| Place of Birth | Berlin, Germany |
| Husband | Wernher Maximilian Magnus von Braun |
| Marriage Date | March 1, 1947 |
| Children | Iris Careen, Margrit Cécile, Peter Constantine |
| Date of Death | January 20, 2025 |
| Age at Death | 96 |
| Place of Death | Alexandria, Virginia, USA |
| Burial | Ivy Hill Cemetery, Alexandria, Virginia |
Early Life in Germany
Maria Luise von Quistorp was born on June 10, 1928, in Berlin, Germany, to Alexander and Theda von Quistorp. She was the second child in the family and the first daughter.
Her childhood unfolded during a turbulent period:
- The rise of the Nazi regime
- The outbreak of World War II
- Wartime displacement and family separation
As a teenager, Maria was sent west to East Frisia to escape advancing Russian forces. Her father went missing for years and was later imprisoned before being released in 1956.
These experiences shaped her resilience long before her life became connected to global scientific history.
Marriage to Wernher von Braun
Maria had known Wernher von Braun since childhood. After World War II, while Wernher was working as a rocket specialist under U.S. supervision, he proposed marriage.
- Marriage date: March 1, 1947
- Location: Landshut, Germany
- The wedding took place under U.S. military guard
Shortly after, Maria moved to the United States, beginning a new chapter far from her homeland.
Life in the United States
After marriage, Maria lived in several key locations tied to Wernher von Braun’s work:
- El Paso, Texas
- Huntsville, Alabama (from 1950)
- Alexandria, Virginia (from 1970)
In Huntsville, she became deeply involved in the community, especially as her husband’s role in the U.S. space program grew following the launch of Sputnik in 1957.
Children
Maria Luise von Quistorp and Wernher von Braun had three children:
- Iris Careen von Braun (born December 1948)
- Margrit Cécile von Braun
- Peter Constantine von Braun (1960–2002)
All three children lived largely private lives, though they are often referenced in historical family records.
Community Work and Public Role
Although Maria von Braun was not a scientist, she played an important role in preserving and supporting space education.
She was closely associated with:
- U.S. Space & Rocket Center
- Rocket Park
- Space Camp scholarships
- Huntsville Symphony Orchestra
She was widely described as a philanthropist and advocate for science education, and a respected figure in the Huntsville community.
Wernher von Braun’s Wife’s Death: What Happened?
Many people search specifically for “Wernher von Braun’s wife’s death”.
Here are the confirmed facts:
- Maria von Braun died on January 20, 2025
- She passed away peacefully at her home in Alexandria, Virginia
- She was 96 years old
- She was surrounded by family and caregivers
The family held a private graveside service and later announced a Celebration of Life.
Later Years and Personal Life
After Wernher von Braun died in 1977, Maria continued to live independently in Alexandria.
In her later years, she:
- Taught yoga at a community center
- Continued traveling
- Held a pilot’s license
- Stayed closely connected with family and friends
She described herself as not lonely, surrounded by children, neighbors, and community.
Burial Information
- Cemetery: Ivy Hill Cemetery
- Location: Alexandria, Virginia
- Plot: Section T, Lot 29, Site 5
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When did Maria von Braun die?
Maria von Braun died on January 20, 2025, at the age of 96.
Where was Maria Luise von Quistorp born?
She was born in Berlin, Germany, on June 10, 1928.
Did Maria von Braun have children?
Yes. She had three children: Iris Careen, Margrit Cécile, and Peter Constantine von Braun.
Where is Maria von Braun buried?
She is buried at Ivy Hill Cemetery in Alexandria, Virginia.
