Obituaries : * Marian Knox Bechtelheimer; Oldest Twin in U.S.

Marian Knox Bechtelheimer, one of the twins designated earlier this year by the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest living identical twins in the United States, has died.

Bechtelheimer died of pneumonia late Monday at the Golden State Care Home in Chatsworth. She was 100.

Marian Elise and Mary Elizabeth Lamb were born March 11, 1895, in Santa Barbara, where they spent their childhood. When they were 13, their mother, who was pregnant, died after falling on a stairway.

An aunt and a housekeeper then raised the twins, who graduated from Ventura High School.

Bechtelheimer married twice. She and her first husband, Ted W. Knox, were among the San Fernando Valley’s early settlers, living on an 80-acre ranch in Canoga Park, which was then called Owensmouth. Her second husband, Wayne Bechtelheimer, was the San Fernando Valley’s first pharmacist, said Bechtelheimer’s daughter, Peggy Knox Eggleston of Agoura Hills.

Marian Bechtelheimer was a founding member of the Owensmouth Women’s Club and active in various church and school affairs.

Those who live as long as the Lamb twins often cite wholesome lifestyles and healthful diets as the reason for their longevity; such was not the case with Bechtelheimer.

“It’s just amazing that she and her sister lived so long because they didn’t follow any rules,” said Eggleston. “Even in the nursing home, [the staff] said she would take three or four desserts and pour sugar over all of them . . . and eat them!”

According to Eggleston, her mother was delighted by the attention that comes with passing the century mark, such as the Guinness honor and being mentioned on “The Today Show” by Willard Scott. Her excitement, however, was tempered by the realization that she had outlived all her friends.

In addition to her daughter, Bechtelheimer is survived by her twin, Mary Elizabeth Sheridan of Santa Barbara; a son, Ted White Knox Jr. of Northridge; a brother, Robert Lamb of Camarillo; 11 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.

There will be no services; burial will be at sea. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.