She was born September 19, 1929, on the family dairy farm in Vernonia, OR, the daughter of Frank and Pauline Schmidlin. Tots was raised on the farm with her two siblings, John and Frances. After graduating from high school as valedictorian, she earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Mt. Angel Women’s College and then taught at community schools in and around Vernonia.
In the late 50s, Theresa proudly ventured up the Alcan highway solo to take a teaching position on Elmendorf Air Force base in Anchorage AK. There she met and married Capt. Howard Seal in February 1962, in a whirlwind romance. After living in southern California and Wiesbaden Germany, they settled in Beaverton, Oregon, where they raised their two children, Chris and Becky.
Theresa was a homemaker for many years and was active in Campfire Girls, the PTA, Meals-on-Wheels and raising money for the American Cancer Society. Later in life, she returned to teaching primarily first grade. She had a particular passion for teaching her young pupils how to read. After retiring in 2000, she privately tutored for family and close friends.
Always active, Theresa then took up watercolor painting. She produced many works of art that she enjoyed sharing and giving as gifts. She always had a project on her art table she was working on; a labor of love, working hours on end to get each “just right”.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Howard; siblings, John Schmidlin and Frances Keagbine. She is survived by her son, Chris Seal of Battle Ground WA, and daughter Rebecca Seal of Pittsburgh, PA. and numerous nieces and nephews.
Theresa had a bubbly personality and was curious about everyone and about life in general. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her. May she rest in peace.
Her celebration of life will be held at St. Cecilia Catholic Church on Tues. August 27, 2024. Visitation at 10:15 a.m., service at 11 a.m. and reception to follow.
Burial will be at Buxton Cemetery, Banks, OR.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances in her honor may be made to the American Cancer Society.
