Thelma Welch Johnson, a beloved figure in Cumberland and an inspiration to all who knew her, peacefully passed away on November 11, 2024, at the age of 90. Born on March 22, 1934, in Webster, Wisconsin, Thelma's life was a tapestry of dedication, service, and joy that touched the hearts of many within and beyond her community.

Thelma's formative years were spent in Webster where she attended Webster High School, instilling in her a lifelong love for learning and community involvement. Her academic journey continued at UW-Eau Claire, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, followed by a CPA Certification.

In her early years, Thelma balanced the demands of operating her family's dairy farm with her husband Al and raising their children, while also working as a physical therapist aide at Cumberland Memorial Hospital. When her youngest child went to college, Thelma embraced her own academic aspirations and went also. Eventually establishing a private accounting practice of 30 years.

Thelma's impact on her community was profound and multifaceted. She served with distinction on the Board of Directors for several organizations, including Kinship Incorporated, Softec Education, and the Thomas St. Angelo Public Library. Her dedication to public service was further evidenced by her election to the Board of Maple Plain Township, where she was re-elected three times.

Her accolades were numerous, including the honor of being named the 2006 Cumberland Citizen of the Year and receiving the 2013 Outstanding Volunteer Service Award from Kids International Ministries for her work in the Philippines, teaching young women to sew, empowering their independence. In 2014, Thelma was awarded the prestigious National Park Service Hartzog Award for her volunteer efforts with the Ice Age Trail Alliance. She cooked over 30,000 meals for the Mobile Skills Crews work weekends. She embraced the IATA commitment to preserving natural treasures for future generations.

Thelma delighted in the simple pleasures of cooking and sewing, and was an avid participant in a book club and Red Hat Society. Her home was often filled with friends, clinking of wine glasses and cribbage pegs as she hosted dinners and game nights. Thelma engaged in meaningful causes such as the Pink Ribbon Advocacy Group, Kinship, and Red Barn Theatre Group, where she contributed her time and talents.

Thelma is preceded in death by her parents Francis and Ray Welch, brothers Warren, Richard and Ray, and her husband William Alfred Johnson.

She is survived by her children, William, Elaine, Buster (Donna) and Lynette (Clifford), and her three granddaughters, Alison, Lindsey and Haley. Also by many loving nieces and nephews.

Thank you to Dean Dversdall for making the last years of Thelma's life some of her happiest, and to everyone who loved and watched over Thelma. A special thank you to the caring staff at Cumberland Care and Rehab.

A memorial service will take place at First Lutheran Church (1180 8th Ave, Cumberland, WI 54829) at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 with visitation one beginning at 10:00 AM.

Last Update: Nov 20, 2024 12:50 pm CST