Thelma Joan Westman

Thelma Joan Westman, 91, passed away on Tuesday, July 5, 2022, in Riverside, California.

Thelma was born in Bicknell, Indiana, on Dec. 14, 1930, to Wilbur and Arlie (Viehe) Fait. She was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband of 33 years, Carl F. Westman; her younger sister, Genevieve Chism; and her eldest son, Gregory Kutch.

Thelma married Carl in Michigan City, Indiana, in January of 1988, and they resided there until his death; she moved to California to be cared for by family shortly thereafter.

Thelma is survived by her daughter, Pamela Dolson; her son, Christopher Kutch; her stepsons, Richard Westman, Ron Westman, Gary Westman and Terry Westman; her grandchildren, Keith Dolson and Lesley Raymond; and step-grandsons, Sean and Ryan Westman.

Thelma lived a very full life. She was a Girl Scout leader in the 1960s; she was also a member of the Michigan City Senior Center. She enjoyed traveling, and was able to go to Egypt and Europe.

She was an avid reader, and an accomplished writer – she self-published a book of poems, and corresponded with friends and family throughout her life. She often wrote letters to the editor to various newspapers expressing her views on current events, and was a contributor to the Anvil Chorus of The News-Dispatch.

Thelma enjoyed spending time at Pottawatomie Country Club with her husband, Carl; and teas at the International Friendship Gardens of Michigan City. She enjoyed "Flying Carpet" films and Thursday night summer concerts at Washington Park.

Thelma will be fondly remembered and missed by all who knew and loved her. Per her wishes, Thelma was cremated and her ashes will be scattered at sea. May she rest in peace among the waves.