Thelma Marie Carlson

Thelma Carlson, 90, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 27, 2011. She was born on January 30, 1921 in Sacred Heart, Minnesota to Harold and Gina (Agre) Helland. After high school, her family moved out West, eventually settling in Olympia.

While working at The Spar in downtown Olympia, Thelma met Ellis Y. Carlson - a shy, good-looking Swedish man. They were married on February 22, 1947 and shared 42 happy years together until Ellis passed away in 1989.

Thelma was a long-time and very active member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church. She was an original member of the Friendship Quilters at Gloria Dei, and she made several beautiful quilts over the years for her children and grandchildren. She was especially proud of the Flower Garden quilt she made herself, all by hand. She was a sports fan, and she enjoyed every chance she got to watch her grandchildren play in their events. She was also proud of her Norwegian heritage. She had fond memories of the two trips she made to Norway and Sweden to visit relatives in 1974 and 1992.

Thelma was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Ellis, and her brother Harry Helland. She is survived by her children, Gerald of Yelm, Dennis (Joanne) of Marysville, Dale (Ann) of Olympia, and Carolyn (Pat) Accimus of Woodinville; 10 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her loving sister, Helen Sorenson of Renton.

A memorial service will be held at Noon on Monday, May 9, 2011 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Olympia, with a reception following. Memorials in Thelma's name may be made to Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, or to the charity of your choice.

Arrangements under the direction of Mills & Mills Funeral Home and Memorial Park, Tumwater, WA.