Obituary of Thelma D. Kiesz

North Creek Thelma Mary Dirolf Kiesz, 89, of Bushey Blvd, Plattsburgh, formerly of North Creek, died Saturday, August 4, 2007 at the Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital, Plattsburgh. Thelma was born on September 7, 1917 in North Creek, a daughter of the late William H. and Flossy Mae (McLaughlin) Dirolf. Thelma showed an aptitude for, and love of music at an early age. She was the organist for St. James Church in North Creek while still a student, and she was the pianist for the North Creek High School Chorus during all four years of her high school studies. Following graduation as Valedictorian of North Creek High School, Thelma attended Oberlin College where she majored in music and traveled extensively with Oberlin vocal groups. Upon receiving her bachelor's degree from Oberlin, she pursued a career in teaching, specializing in both instrumental and vocal music. She taught in a number of school systems, including two out-of-state schools (in Michigan and North Dakota) and Pottersville Central School, and retired from the Onondaga School System near Syracuse. In spite of her busy teaching schedule with her students, she found time to return to Syracuse University and was awarded a master's degree. In 1975 Thelma retired to Orlando, Florida where she spent many happy years doing volunteer work and pursuing her love of music by giving private lessons and singing with choral groups, including the Russell College Choir. She returned to North Creek each year that her health allowed to spend the summer with her mother. Thelma spent the last six years of her life at the Evergreen Nursing Home in Plattsburgh to be close to her brother, William E. (Bill) Dirolf, who preceded her in death in 2005, and his family. Her infant daughter Gwen died shortly after birth. Thelma is survived by her sister-in-law, Carol F. Dirolf of Plattsburgh, six nieces and nephews, and seven grand-nieces and nephews. Friends and family may call from 12 until 1 pm on Tuesday, August 7 at St. James Church, Main St., North Creek, where a Mass of Christian burial will follow at 1pm with the Rev. John O’Kane celebrant. Burial will follow at St. James Cemetery, North Creek. Visit www.alexanderfuneralhomes.com for online guest book, condolences and directions.