Thelma Irene Steeves

Thelma Irene Steeves was born Sept. 4th 1918, in Ellensburg, Washington. She passed away February 26th, 2014 in Fortuna at the age of 95. Thelma married Russell Steeves, May 29, 1936, in Grants Pass, Oregon. Russell and Thelma raised their children in Ferndale, Mazeppa Ranch, and Rainbow Ranch. They also lived in Petrolia, Ca. where Russell worked for Humboldt Co. and Thelma did housekeeping. While there, they were caretakers at the Presbyterian Church Camp, and later bought the Mattole Cafe. They were married until 1971. Thelma then moved to Clearlake, CA and worked as a waitress, housekeeper & cook in many different places. Later mom moved back to Humboldt County living in Fortuna and then to Rio Dell. While there she married Ray Gatlin. She was a member of the Rio Dell Baptist Church, where she made many close friends. She also attended the Senior Adult Day Care two days a week, which she really enjoyed. Thelma was preceded in death by her parents, Gertrude and Albert Sheffield, husbands, Russell Steeves, and Ray Gatlin, Brother Chester Sheffield, sisters Gladys Main and Marjorie Echols. She is survived by her three sons, James Steeves (Connie), Jack Steeves (Sharon), & Ken Steeves (Linda), Grandchildren Ronda Paul, Roy Steeves, Russell Steeves, Tyson Steeves, Courtnie Steeves, and numerous great grandchildren. Friends and family are invited to a viewing / visitation at Goble’s Fortuna Mortuary, 560 12th St., Fortuna, CA. on Friday, March 7, 2014 from Noon to 5:00 PM. with the funeral services on Sat. March 8th, 2014, at 11:30 at Goble’s Fortuna Mortuary, in Fortuna, Ca. Followed by Graveside service then a potluck at the Rio Dell Baptist Church, for friends and family. Memorial contributions can be made in Thelma's name to the Rio Dell Baptist Church, Senior Adult Day Care in Eureka, or your favorite charity.

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