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Thelma Barlow Obituary
Born in Fordyce, Nebraska to William and Kathryn Wieb-elhaus, Thelma died March 22, 2011. She married George Barlow on Valentine's Day 1942. They spent 67 years in Olympia, where they built their home, raised their fam-ily and were members of St. Mikes.
Thelma received her Bach-elors in Ed. from PLU and was a dedicated teacher for 31 years, 28 at St. Mikes. She was active in her community and loved living in the NW.
She is survived by her hus-band; children, Barbara, Douglas and Nadine; 6 grand children; 4 great-grand child-ren; brothers William, Gene, and Dean; and sisters Gladys and Patricia.
Services will be held Mon-day, March 29, 2011 2:30pm at St. Mikes, Olympia.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thelma Barlow
Angela Bobbitt-Celestine
April 5, 2011
I always remembered Mrs. Barlow, she was a great teacher, tough but cared about the kids. Years later she came into a beauty salon I worked at an remembered me as soon as I said Hello..she said she never forgot a student...
Frances Capestany-Hewitt
April 4, 2011
One of the best teachers ever. She taught me the importance of education, studying and responsibility!
Eric Fiedler
April 1, 2011
I remember being terrified of going into 4th grade because someone said Mrs.Barlow was mean. That was about as wrong as wrong can get. Wonderful educator who inspired hard work from her students. She taught respect and was loved by her students. I remember seeing her at Safeway back in college and I went up to her and asked if she remembered me. Her response, "Hello, good-lookin, of course I remember you." Right then wonderful memories of being in her class came rushing back. This world is a better place because of her.
March 31, 2011
She never forgot who I was. I went from fourth grade to 40 before seeing her again and she didn't skip a beat. What a woman!
Tim Stricklett
March 31, 2011
A strong teacher who taught more than just the required academics but inner strength, independence, and the love for life. Many positive memories of Mrs. Barlow have followed me through my life. I will be forever greatful for the positive influences she had on my life.
Jim Swan
March 31, 2011
I was incredibly lucky to begin my teaching career one door down from Thelma. I learned so much from this gifted teacher. So many lives were touched by her. She is truly an unforgettable person. I will always carry her memory with me.
Walt Robertson
March 30, 2011
George, Doug and Nadine (sorry Barb but we never met but you're included) I was surprised when I got the email from Jeri Lynn (in LA) alerting me to Thelma's passing. Jeri, and I, of course send our best to you all. Tell me thought, why is the song so right..."only the good die young"?
Kevin Leitch
March 29, 2011
I often think of my time at St. Mikes and easily recall so many of my teachers from those eight (8) years on 11th Avenue. Mrs. Barlow, certainly stationed, among them. I was consistently guided by her good words and direction, throughout the fourth grade and beyond.
Very best regards to the Barlows and to all of her St. Michaels family.
Kevin Leitch Class of 1978
March 28, 2011
Both of my daughters were lucky enough to have had Thelma as their 4th grade teacher. She firmly shepherded them from the primary grades to the "down to business" level of school work. I recall her saying "They learn to read in the primary grades. In fourth grade, they will read to learn."
She was a pleasure to know. Every child deserves to have a Thelma Barlow in their corner.
Ann Ryan (Olympia, WA)
Frank Petrino
March 28, 2011
Certainly the most incredible colleague I ever worked with!! Great teacher. The world is better because of her life!
Dianne Stolz-Daigneault
March 27, 2011
Mrs. Barlow was my 4th grade teacher at St. Mike's. She was tough on us and kept us motivated. She was unforgettable and will be missed.
Carrie Beaudette
March 27, 2011
My condolences to Uncle George and children. My Aunt Thelma was an incredible lady. We have wonderful family reunion memories that were spent at Horsecreek. Thank God for them. Love - Carrie & Bill
Martha (Miller) Estes
March 27, 2011
my favorite teacher of all time! Wonderful, incredible lady!!
March 27, 2011
Dear Barbie, Bob and family....My warmest thoughts are with you, Barb. Even though the season of our parents is ending, it still leaves a strange hole in our hearts. I hope it fills with the good memories very quickly. I send my love to you and yours and will see you soon. My love to you all, Kathy (Stone) Kirchoff
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