Obituary of GARRETT – Thelma Mary

1927 – 2011 Our beautiful Thelma passed away suddenly on February 28, 2011 at the age of 83; a merciful event that ended her struggle with Alzheimer’s. Thelma is survived by her son Michael Kromm; granddaughter Jennifer Kromm; partner Robert “Bud” Vine; the Resch family, including sister Linda (Jerry) and nephews Laine, Darren, David; the Kaiser family, including nephews Dean and Greg; Aunt Lorraine (Henry) Gerlitz; numerous other relatives; and long-time friend, Julie Dobrocki. Eldest daughter of Peter and Molly Gerlitz (nee Sieb), Thelma was born Sept. 29, 1927 in Hanna, AB, alongside her stillborn twin, Margaret. Growing up in the Riverside district of Calgary, Thelma was part of a larger Gerlitz “familie” that called the area home. Nicknamed “Sally,” Thelma attended public school, including Western Canada High, and later trained in hairdressing at Nels Todd. She applied her craft at various salons and her own home-based shop, enjoying close relationships with many loyal clients. As both her Sieb and Gerlitz grandparents brought their families to Canada in the early 1900’s, Thelma was keenly interested in studying her immigrant roots and was an active member of The American Historical Society of Germans from Russia. Proudly Canadian, Thelma loved all things “Calgary.” Winning a horse at the Stampede as a teen was among her fondest memories. Fascinated by the world at large, her favourite place, however, was home; recreating Gramma’s old recipes, applying an artistic touch to this or that, listening to the big-band sounds of her generation or, more recently, Michael Bublé. Most of all, Thelma loved gathering with family and friends, especially when children and babies were present. Indeed, she could never get enough of that. Thelma was predeceased by husbands Jim Kromm and Fred Garrett; sister Leora Kaiser; daughter-in-law Wendy Kromm; and many other loved ones. Special thanks to Alison Hicks of Transition Services and the staff at McKenzie Towne Care Centre. Internment details to be announced. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Thelma Garrett, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403)243-8200