Thelma Gawthrop

Thelma Rae Gawthrop, age 94, Alexandria, died April 10, 2012 at Douglas County Hospital. Thelma was born November 11, 1917 to Charles and Beatrice Davis in Dowagiac, Michigan. She was united in marriage to Dudley Gawthrop in 1936 and to this marriage, five children were born, Jackie, Delores, Bud, Bill and Rick. The family moved to Minnesota in 1943. Thelma was a homemaker until her children were grown. After the death of her husband, she took several different jobs, including Magic Gardens, Braun?s Bakery, Festival Foods and Walmart greenhouse. She continued to live on her own until two days before her death, suffering a stroke. Thelma was preceded in death by her parents; six brothers and sisters; husband, Dudley; daughter, Jackie; and son, Charles ?Bud,? on April 4, 2012. Surviving are her children, Delores Martin of Alexandria, Bill of Lino Lakes and Rick of Alexandria; 12 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; brother, Chuck Davis of Elkhart, Indiana; several nieces and nephews. Thelma was a member of her church for more than 60 years. She will be greatly missed by all who loved her. A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 21 at 1 p.m. at Shalom Lutheran Church in Alexandria. Visitation is at the church prior to the service, starting at 12:30 p.m.