Jerene L. Theetge

Jerene "Jerri" L. Theetge of 1028 Ellis Hollow Road, Ithaca, passed away unexpectedly at her residence on Friday, October 3, 2008 at the age of 73.

Born in York, Nebraska on January 24, 1935, Jerri was the daughter of Ernest and Irma (Ortegren) Timmons.

Jerri was employed by Morse Chain for many years before discovering a deep-seated passion for health care. She accepted a nurse's aide position at Oak Hill Manor where she enjoyed her "labor of love" for many years prior to her retirement. Following retirement, Jerri dedicated every evening to the care of the many pets that reside at Oak Hill Manor. This evening ritual allowed Jerri to continue her lifelong love of animals and to keep in contact with her friends and former co-workers, lifting their spirits with her sense of humor and sincere compassion. Close friends and family members will also remember Jerri for her favorite color, which was white, and her insistence on wearing moccasins in any weather.

In addition to her parents, Jerri was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, whom she cared for tirelessly throughout his many years of ailing health before his passing on May 3, 2005.

She is survived by three daughters, Shelly (Michael) Griffin of Cheyenne, WY, April Rose (Brian Williams) of Trumansburg and Betty Ann Covert of Trumansburg; one son, Bradley (Madeline) Theetge of San Luis Obispo, CA; 12 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Dallas Timmons of St. Paul, NE and Rodney (Sandy) Timmons of Hordville, NE; several nieces and nephews and her beloved cat "Boots".

In keeping with Jerri's wishes, no public services have been scheduled.

The family asks those who wish to make a contribution in Jerri's memory to kindly consider SPCA, 1640 Hanshaw Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850.