Theresa Triebwasser

Theresa Marie Triebwasser

December 25, 1935 – February 20, 2024

 As fitting for someone born on Christmas Day 1935, Theresa Marie Triebwasser was a gift to all blessed to know her. 

Theresa was born to Sofia and Giuseppe Ferraro in College Place, a suburb of Walla Walla Washington. Theresa and her three older brothers were the family’s first generation born in the United States and she remained proud of her Italian heritage throughout her life. All the siblings worked on the family farm producing many varieties of vegetables for the surrounding community. 

Theresa graduated from DeSales High School and started her career by working as a bookkeeper at Baker Boyer Bank. 

From an early age, Theresa was an accomplished cook and baker, with spaghetti and meatballs and chocolate chip cookies being particular specialties. It was a skill that proved instrumental in winning the heart of her true love, Warren Triebwasser, after they met at a picnic in 1958. Theresa and Warren were married on January 17, 1959.

Warren’s position as Airman First Class with the Airforce took the couple to Fairbanks, Alaska for two years. In 1962, they relocated to Spokane where Warren was stationed at Deep Creek.  In1964 the couple bought the home they would reside in for 59 years. 

Theresa continued her banking career in Spokane even after her daughter Karen arrived in 1967. The family made many fond memories camping and fishing over the years, with trips to Banff and Twin Lakes being particular favorites. 

A woman of deep faith, Theresa was a devote Catholic and active member of St. Charles church in Spokane, where she volunteered for the parish Altar Society. She was an accomplished gardener and prolific baker, often showering her friends and grandchildren with vegetables and sweet treats. Theresa truly had a heart of gold and will be missed and remembered by all who knew her.

Theresa was predeceased by her beloved husband of 55 years, Warren, and her brothers, Dominic, Mario and Joseph Ferraro.  She is survived by her daughter Karen (Pat) O’Donnell and three grandchildren, Sarah, Lauren, and John O’Donnell. 

A memorial service is not planned at this time. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests remembrances to one of Theresa’s favorite places, The Grotto (the National Sanctuary of our Sorrowful Mother) in Portland, Oregon.