Mrs. Thelma Engstrom Holdridge

Holdridge ,Thelma Engstrom
Deceased Nov 26, 2011

Born September 7, 1914, in Dresden, Kansas; Thelma was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She passed away peacefully at home shortly after celebrating her 97th birthday; joining her loving husband of 67 years, Warren Bornt Holdridge. She is survived by her 4 children, - David, Paul, Susan and Ellery. She had 9 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

When she was a young child, Thelma's family moved from Kansas to San Diego county, living in Ramona, Santee and finally La Mesa. Thelma and Warren met while attending San Diego State University, and were married in San Diego. Shortly after their marriage they relocated to Los Angeles, where they lived for the rest of their lives. Thelma was an excellent student, earning a Bachelor's Degree from San Diego State and then a Master's Degree in Education from USC.

After graduation, she taught English and Typing at Willowbrook Jr. High and Carson High School. After earning her Master's Degree, she taught Business English and Medical Secretarial courses at East LA Junior College and LA City College for many years. One of the highlights of her career was co-writing a textbook entitled "College Business English," from which she taught at West L.A. Community College toward the end of her teaching career.

Thelma was an active member of Knox Presbyterian Church, serving as an Elder and Deacon. She was also a long time member of PEO, a women's philanthropic organization; as well as Laderian Presbyterian Women.

Thelma is remembered for her love and kindness to all who knew her, and her dedication to the tasks in which she involved herself. The world is a better place because of Thelma, and heaven is rejoicing at her presence.

Friends in the Los Angeles area are invited to come and celebrate Thelma's life at a Memorial service to be held at Knox Presbyterian Church in the Ladera Heights on December 21, 2011 at 12:00 pn