In Memoriam — Theresa Alsum

Theresa Alberta Alsum journeyed home on Thursday, November 13, 2014 surrounded by loved ones and she will be deeply missed by all.

Theresa was born on October 25, 1930, the daughter of Andrew and Minnie Homan. She married Newton Alsum on February 10, 1950. She will be remembered as a faithful wife, mother, grandmother, great grandma, sister/ in law and aunt who devoted her life first to God and then to her family.

Theresa lived in the Randolph community her entire life. As a young woman, she worked a few years at Jung’s before marrying and starting a family. She was a member of the First Christian Reformed Church, where she enjoyed participating in coffee break, Martha Circle and the choir. She loved playing the organ, and used this talent for over 50 years playing for church services, weddings and other opportunities that arose. She was also active in various school women’s activities, and generously volunteered her talents and services where she could.

Theresa had a passion for and commitment to her family – being an amazing wife and helpmate to Newton, and an equally amazing mother, grandmother and great grandma. Next to God, her family was the center of her life. Theresa found great fulfillment in caring for her family, her encouragement and loving support is treasured by her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Her faith in God was evident in the day-to-day activities she did with joy and humility. In Newton’s last years, her loving care was a living example of a Christ-like servant.

She loved anything that involved bringing the family together, from Sunday suppers to camping trips. She was an enthusiastic fan, regularly in the stands at sporting events, first for her kids, then grandkids and even great grandkids.  She was always there with a helping hand and heart for any family projects or activities.

She will be missed by her eight children Larry (Paula) Alsum, Friesland, Marilyn(and the late Steve) Mulder, Tony (Sandy) Alsum both of Waupun, Norb ( Sandee) Alsum, Jan (Brian) Braaksma, Lorie (Steve) Tillema, Tom (Deb) Alsum, Lisa (Stuart) White, all of Randolph; 28 grandchildren, 27 greatgrandchildren, 1 sister Gertrude ( Bill) Gaastra, sister- in- laws Grace Homan, and Bertha Bylsma.  She was preceded in death by her husband Newton in 2003, son- in-law Steve in 2012, brother Arnold, brother-in- law Louis, parents, parents in law, and two nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Randolph Christian School, Central Wisconsin Christian Schools, and Hillside Hospice. Arrangements are being handled by Randolph Community Funeral Home.  Visitation will be Sunday, November 16, 2014 at First Christian Reformed Church in East Friesland from 4:00 – 8:00 pm. Funeral will be Monday, November 17,2014 at First Christian Reformed Church in East Friesland at 11:00 am with visitation beginning at 10:00.