Devoted wife, mother and grandmother with a steadfast love for her Lord, Gladys Elaine Ammerman, age 81, died on Tuesday Nov. 13, 2018 at St. Joseph Hospital. She was ready to go home to Jesus.
Gladys was born June 18, 1937 in Mahnomen County, Minnesota, to parents Ernest and Agnes (Sweep) ter Wisscha. She was one of eight children.
Gladys attended Raymond High School in Raymond, Minnesota. She married her high school sweetheart, Vern Ammerman, on April 20, 1955 in Clara City, Minnesota, and was blessed with a loving marriage of 63 years. They moved their family to Lynden in 1964.
Her favorite pastimes included fishing with her husband, reading, playing games and puzzles. She enjoyed getting together for family holiday celebrations. Gladys was a member of Bethel Christian Reformed Church. Even with her physical limitations, Gladys always had a smile and was an inspiration to many.
She was preceded in death by siblings John ter Wisscha, Gerald ter Wisscha, Elaine ter Wisscha, Alvin ter Wisscha and Eleanor ter Wisscha; and infant son Daryl Ammerman.
Gladys is survived by husband Vernon Ammerman of Lynden; children Greg Ammerman (Lisa) of Bellingham, Jackie Kraemer (Mike) of Snoqualmie, and Patty Smiley (Dean) of LaConner; grandchildren Danielle Craver (Adam), Robert Ammerman (Bree), Amanda Smith (Mark), Tony Kraemer (Shawnese), Payton Kraemer (Hillary), Joe Ezell and Anna Ezell; and nine great-grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by siblings Lester ter Wisscha, Ernie ter Wisscha and Betty Bergsma.
Graveside services were held Friday, Nov. 16, at Monumenta Cemetery, followed by the memorial service in Bethel Christian Reformed Church, Lynden.
Memorials in Gladys’ name may be made to Lynden Christian Schools, 417 Lyncs Drive, Lynden, WA 98264.
You are invited to share your memories and condolences in the online guest book at www.GilliesFuneralHome.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
