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Our wonderful, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, Gloria Ullas who was 78 years old and lived in Zillah, WA for over 30 years, passed away peacefully in her sleep October 7th, 2011 in Zillah, WA. She always had a kind word and warm smile for everyone. She was loved by so many, and in return she loved them. We were blessed to have her with us as long as we did, and we will miss her very much.
Gloria was born in Versailles, Missouri. After the death of her beloved mother, at the age of 14 she moved to Vallejo, CA to live with her sister, Geneva Baldasare.
She was 17 when she met Roy Ullas while they were both working at Woolworths Five and Dime. Gloria worked behind the soda fountain and Roy worked as a stock boy. They married when she was 18. They had two children, Yvonne and Rob.
In 1969 they bought and operated the Rasco Department Store in Sunnyside, WA. She was very involved with the Sunnyside Eagles serving as Madam President. Finally, after 17 years and 14 moves, Gloria’s children were raised and she was able to stop packing and moving. In 1976 she and Roy divorced.
During this time she gained her independence by learning to drive with Yvonne teaching her every stop and skid along the way! She became the supervisor of Benton County Senior Council on Aging and purchased her home in Zillah, WA.
During this time she met her companion Elroy Orth. They spent the next 14 years taking many day trips and laughing everyday until his death.
She began her next career as Wedding & Events Manager and Wine Tasting Manager in 2001 working for David Padgett at Maison De Padgett winery in Zillah, WA. She was dedicated and devoted to the winery, waxing, labeling, helping keep the gardens beautifully manicured, and running the events with pride and joy. Over the 10 years of her employment this job meant the world to her as she became a significant part of the Maison De Padgett winery family. Embracing the wine industry with skill and mastery, she was devoted to them until her death. “Maison De Padgett and Horizon’s Edge would not be the success they are without her devotion”. David Padgett
Gloria had a passion to help others. With a twinkle in her eye, a smile on her bright face and joy in her heart she volunteered at the Zillah Food Bank on her day off every week. Greeting the children and giving them a toy or stuffed animal was her trademark. Many children left with a smile on their face, a stuffed animal in their arms and love in their hearts.
Every morning mom woke up to a pot of coffee, her morning delight, along with her devoted companion, Buddy Jean, her much loved cat whom she rescued.
She was preceded in death by her parents Joda Lee and William Weaver and two brothers Ira Weaver and Calvin Dale Weaver.
Surviving her is daughter Yvonne Ullas, Yakima, WA, her son Rob Ullas (Cher Keeley), Wenatchee, WA, granddaughter Heather Johnson (Erik) Portage, WI, three great grandchildren Sadie Lillian Johnson, Jack Johnson, Ryan Johnson, adopted daughter’s Loretta Watson and Crystal Marey, and adopted grandson’s Jon and Matt Watson, one sister, Geneva Baldasare, Napa, CA, one brother Bill Weaver Jr (Mary), Independence, Missouri and sister-in-law Ruby Weaver of Bluesprings. Missouri, and 13 nieces and nephews.
Mom, you were the backbone of our family, we will always treasure you, love you and hold you so very dear in our hearts! We are who we are because of the amazingly strong woman and mother that you were! In lieu of flowers please help fulfill her personal goal of filling the shelves at the Zillah Food Bank (KeyBank, 100 7th St, Zillah, WA 98953 or donations may also be dropped off at Roosevelt Elementary School at 120 North 16th Ave. in Yakima).
For those of you that were ever poured a glass of wine by our Mom please come and raise a glass of wine in Memory of our beloved Mother, Gloria Jean Ullas. Her Celebration of Life begins Friday, October 14, 2011, 1 pm at the Maison De Padgett winery, 2231 Roza Drive, Zillah, WA and her celebration will never end. Arrangements by Valley Hills Funeral Home.
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Rob, though I didnt know your mother, I know your mothers best work. She very successfully raised you to be the great, kind hearted person that you are. This time is difficult to go through. You have many memories to hold on to. I pray you and your loved ones will find comfort in these. Also, may the loving arms of our Savour, comfort & carry you through this difficult time. God bless you...Gary & Jamie Weenink
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Gloria, Mrs. U. I have missed you and I know you are now at peace. Say hello and have a cup of coffee with dad.
Karen
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Yvonne, I know how you are feeling right now. I will pray for your mom.
Karen
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Dear Yvonne and Rob we were saddened to hear of Glorias passing, although I never met her she was a delight to talk to. Bill always said how sweet she was. In our thoughts Uncle Bill and Aunt Mary
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