Thelma F. Ameter

In loving memory of Thelma F. Ameter (June 23, 1926 – June 30, 2024)

Thelma Foust Ameter was born Thelma Victoria Foust on June 23, 1926, in the quiet town of Hope, IN. The youngest of four daughters to George Gaines Foust and Beatrice Cecelia (McIntire) Foust, Thelma's roots were firmly planted in the heartland. After losing both parents by the age of seven, she spent her adolescence living with a succession of relatives.

After completing high school, Thelma journeyed to Indianapolis, IN, where fate and her sister Katie, led her to Howard Ameter. Howard and Thelma were married at Hope United Methodist Church in Hope, IN on June 27, 1948. Their daughter, Mary Howard Ameter, arrived on June 29, 1954, bringing with her a new chapter to their lives.

Thelma wore many hats—teacher, mentor, and friend. Her passion lay in guiding young people. Whether through the Girl Scouts of America or Broadway United Methodist Church or through her work in business and politics, Thelma left an indelible mark on those she touched.

As time went by, Thelma's family expanded. She gained a son-in-law, Mark Baker, and later a grandson, Kevin. Kevin was blessed to be able to spend many summers with his GG and PaPaw hanging out at the Riviera Club, exploring the Indianapolis Children’s Museum, and taking cool-off rides in the '71 Mustang convertible with the obligatory stop at Baskin-Robbins for an ice cream cone.

It is said that there is the family you are born to and the family you choose. Beyond bloodlines, Thelma's heart embraced a constellation of "family by choice." Friends, neighbors, and neighborhood kids found a safe place in her home. She was the neighborhood grandma, the keeper of secrets, the confidante, and the provider of an endless supply of cookies and “coke in little bottles.”

Thelma is survived by her daughter, Mary A. (Mark) Baker, her grandson Kevin (Alaina Knief) Baker, her loyal Great Pyrenees mix companion Gracie Mae, and a host of nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and nephews, cousins, and extended family.

Today, we celebrate Thelma’s legacy of a life well-lived, etched in the memories of those who knew her best. May her spirit continue to inspire kindness and love, echoing through the generations.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of UW Hospital and Oakwood Village for providing excellent medical and compassionate care to Thelma in her final weeks. A celebration of Thelma's life will be held on Saturday, July 20, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Flanner Buchanan-Washington Park North, 2706 Kessler Blvd. W. Dr. in Indianapolis, IN.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to one of the following organizations, or a suitable organization of your choice.

Washington Township Schools Foundation

8550 Woodfield Crossing Blvd

Indianapolis, IN 46240

317-845-9400

www.wtsfoundation.org

Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra

33 E Washington St Ste 600

Indianapolis IN 46204

317-639-4300

www.indianapolissymphony.org/support/donate

Indianapolis Children’s Museum

3000 N Meridian St

Indianapolis IN 46208-4716

317-334-4000

www.childrensmuseum.org/donate/donate=online

University of Wisconsin Foundation – Emergency Student Support (fund 112200209)

UW Foundation

U.S. Bank Lockbox

Box 78807

Milwaukee, WI 53278-0807

www.supportuw.org