Thelma Jean Gustafson

Thelma was born on September 15, 1934, in Rock Island, Illinois. As an adult Thelma decided to pursue a college degree and graduated from Western Washington University in 1980 with a degree in Human Services. Thelma worked as a secretary in multiple offices/companies throughout her life. She also volunteered as a Medicare Guide, helping seniors understand their Medicare benefits.

In 1955, Thelma married Ralph Gustafson and the couple had two children together. Thelma was involved in the Look Ahead Program: a wellness program for people with diabetes; as well as various exercise programs including Silver Sneakers and Senior exercise program at the Tukwila Community Center. Ralph, Thelma, and their son Steve moved from Tukwila to Spokane in 2019 to be closer to their daughter and Ralph's family.

Thelma enjoyed learning new things. She attended multiple courses through local senior centers and Senior College Programs throughout the nation. Ralph and Thelma loved camping and when Ralph retired, they were volunteer campground hosts at multiple campgrounds throughout Washington and the Oregon Coast. Her family and friends will always remember her as someone who valued learning; would go out of her way to help others and who kept up on current affairs.

Thelma is survived by her husband of 67 years, Ralph Gustafson, two children Susan Ropp (Brian)and Steven Gustafson, her sister, Betty Boyer, sister-in-law, Ellen Johnson, brother-in-law Donald Foster (Sara) and multiple nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Thelma Irene and Raymond Boyer, sister, Bobbie Moore, and brother-in-law, Warren Gustafson.

A Celebration of Life Service is scheduled for 1pm on May 13, at Ball and Dodd Funeral Home, with an inurnment to follow at Fairmount Memorial Park, commencing at 2:30pm. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Thelma’s life.

The family would like to thank the owners and caregivers of Jomani Adult Family Home and Gentiva Hospice. In Lieu of flowers, charitable donations may be made in Thelma’s honor to The Dementia Society of America or The Autism Society of Washington.

Professional services are being conducted by Ball and Dodd Funeral Home.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.BallandDodd.com for the Gustafson family.