On Saturday, January 12, 2019, Zelma Kreutzman Foisy Groce passed away in Yakima, Washington, at the age of 105.
Zelma was born on October 6, 1913, in Yakima, Washington, to Hugo and Minnie Kreutzman. Zelma was only five days old when her mother died, and was adopted by her Uncle Edward and Aunt Sadie Kreutzman. She graduated from Yakima High School in 1931, married her high school sweetheart, Raymond Lee Foisy, and they had one son, Raymond Deane. Raymond Lee died early in their marriage. Zelma then met and married Carl W. Groce while he was serving in World War II.
Zelma loved to travel, but one of her favorite spots on the earth was her cabin on Bumping Lake where she, Carl, and her family spent many happy summers. Zelma gave countless volunteer hours to organizations, such as the American Red Cross, American Legion, and Federated Women’s Club. She became interested in parliamentary procedure, and eventually became a Professional Registered Parliamentarian. One of Zelma’s notable accomplishments was being appointed to the Washington State Advisory Council on Vocational Education by Governor Dan Evans. She was also nominated for a Volunteer Action Award by President Ronald and First Lady Nancy Reagan.
Zelma was preceded in death by her parents, Hugo and Minnie; adoptive parents, Edward and Sadie; a sister, Clareese, and a brother, Karol; and husbands, Raymond and Carl. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Raymond and Norma Foisy; her grandchildren and their spouses, Diann (Foisy) and Al Kraft; Linda (Foisy) and Jamie Hanseler; and Michael and Myria Foisy; great grandchildren, Justin, Jared, and Jeffery Kraft; Fritz and Haley Hanseler; and Danielle (Foisy) Wilder; and great-great grandchildren, Aubrie Kraft; and Kayden and Keegan Wilder.
Zelma’s family graveside service was held at Terrace Heights Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorials be directed to The Pegasus Project or to Seattle Children’s Hospital.
