Thelma G. Alrick

Thelma Gene Alrick (Welch), 89, passed away June 5, 2016 after a long, happy and satisfying life. She was born in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan to Eugene and Eglah Welch, and was the third of five children. Thelma was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Arlene, and her brother Wayne. She has two younger sisters, Erma Gallagher and Barbara Buchanan. Thelma earned her degree as a registered nurse in Minneapolis, Minnesota and spent her residency training on a reservation in Oklahoma, working with children. In 1949, Thelma married Lyle Alrick and enjoyed 41 years of marriage until his death in 1989. She is survived by their four children, Denise (Harold) Helmick, Doug (Rhonda ) Alrick, Lance (Debbie) Alrick , Shannan (David) Deater, and 8 grandchildren. Thelma (Terry) enjoyed her role as a nurse for over 40 years. She valued the relationships she formed with Dr.’s Hunt, Gove, and Crane as well as her co-workers and patients. Thelma was passionate about music, art, gardening and animals, but her primary focus was on family. She was loving, supportive and generous to all around her and took a genuine interest in the lives of those she loved. Thelma earned a bachelor’s degree in Art after raising her children. She enjoyed teaching Sunday school, tutoring middle schoolers and volunteering with other women to raise money for those in need. She was an advocate for the underserved and promoted education for all children. Thelma’s faith in God sustained her and motivated her to promote love for others without judgement. A memorial service will take place at 11:00 am on July 23, 2016 at the First Presbyterian Church of Richland. There will be a luncheon immediately following the service.