Born to Frank A. and Sophie Foster, Theresa was raised on the family farm in Petoskey, Michigan. As one of 7 children, she developed her love of family, tireless work ethic, outgoing personality, and generous spirit. Following her schooling in Petoskey, Theresa graduated from Aquinas College and taught kindergarten several years in Plainfield Township, Michigan.
Following her marriage to Ralph Golding in 1952, the couple moved to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and began their family. It was there they welcomed Kevin and Kenneth into the world. Shortly following her return to Petoskey, a third son, Robert, joined the family. Theresa continued to work several years at the Petoskey Bay View Country Club before becoming a fixture for 34 years at Hayner's Restaurant. Her trademark smile and chatter greeted all who entered, whether a regular or first-time visitor. Early in her Hayner's career, Theresa had her daughter Kathy. Through the years Theresa diligently provided for her family. Whether through selfless sacrifice or proud displaying of her latest pictures, Theresa's love for her kids was on constant display.
Subsequent to Hayner's, Theresa was far from retired. Unable to sit still, she took her ceaseless energy to the Friendship Centers of Emmet County where she served as the In-Home Service Scheduler and later the Dining Room Assistant for the next 16 years. While there, Theresa married Leo Sullivan. At the spry age of 80, Theresa decided 50 years of work was enough, and she decided to enjoy her years with Leo traveling to visit family, sight-seeing, and enjoying social events. When unable to travel, Theresa wore out her phone, updating everyone in her contact list of the day's events.
Theresa was an avid fan of the University of Michigan football team and the Detroit Tigers. Without question though, her favorite teams were always the ones on which her kids, grandkids, or great grandkids played. She was the ever-supportive mom, grandma, and great grandma ... attending, encouraging, and loving without fail.
A lifelong member of St. Francis Xavier Church of Petoskey, Theresa's faith and trust in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ allowed her to face her life's hardships and blessings with equal grace. Her family anticipates a joyful reunion with her in heaven.
Theresa was preceded in death by her husband’s Ralph Golding and Leo Sullivan, brothers Al (Nellie) Foster and Frank Foster, sisters Hazel (Robert) Lund, Annie (Edward) Shepard, and Katie (Jack) Curtis, and son Kevin Golding. She is survived by sons and grandkids Kenneth (Connie) Golding, Lynnsey (Brad) Klooster, Nathan (Erica) Golding, Taylor (Ellie) Golding and Robert (Valerie) Golding, Brandon (Ashley) Jaskolski, Aron (Samantha) Jaskolski, Malori (Noah) Grulke, daughter Kathy (Vincent) Pawlicki, Hannah (Austin) Anderson, Jordan Pawlicki, daughter-in-law Patty Golding, and sister Ruth (Brian, Richard) Grady Liszewski. Her legacy also lives through 9 great grandchildren and her many beloved nieces and nephews.
With sincerest gratitude, the family thanks the staff of Blissful Home Care (Mandi, Donna, Sarah, and Trina) and McLaren Home Care and Hospice (Alicia and Dennis) who compassionately aided in caring for Theresa as she approached her eternal home. Donations in Theresa's memory may be made to the Friendship Centers of Emmet County.
A memorial Mass celebrating Theresa’s life will be held at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church on May 13th at 11am. The family will receive friends at the church from 9am until the time of the Mass. Burial will be in St. Francis Cemetery in Petoskey.
Arrangements are in the care of the Stone Funeral Home of Petoskey.
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