The Rev. Edward B. Anderson

The Rev. Edward “Ted” B. Anderson died on February 18, 2025, at the age of 90 (1934-2025).

Ted was born on April 22, 1934, in New Haven CT, to Carl E. Anderson and Frances Burton Anderson. He grew up alongside his parents, grandmother, and his brother John. Raised in a New England Congregational church, he attended his senior year of high school in England. From 1954–1957, Ted served in the United States Army on outpost duty in Alaska. Following his military service, he earned his Bachelor of Arts with a major in English from Yale University CT in 1959, and a master’s degree in education from Harvard University MA in 1960. He then taught secondary school English at Cheshire High School CT, from 1960–1963.

Motivated by a deep concern for the spiritual welfare and development of young people, Ted returned to Yale and earned his Master of Divinity in 1966. That same year, he accepted a position as a chaplain/teacher at Millbrook School in Millbrook NY. There, he taught English, History, Ecology, and Religion, coached hockey, and directed the environmental studies program and ornithology research station. This experience shaped his thinking in a liberal direction. In 1970, he resigned from Millbrook School to seek employment more aligned with his theology. He moved to Nantucket MA, where his parents lived, and worked as a carpenter while discerning his next steps.

Ever since moving to Nantucket, Ted served as a guest minister at the Second Congregational Meeting House Society, UU, in Nantucket MA, several times during 1970 and 1971. As he continued his interim service with the congregation, he became increasingly delighted by the parishioners and their religious thinking. He felt he had found a community whose values were compatible with his own. In 1971, he accepted a call from the Second Congregational Meeting House to become their pastor and served until 1999.

Under Rev. Anderson’s leadership, the congregation experienced a renewed spirit, a new attitude, and a new sense of direction. The religious education program expanded significantly. The Rev. Anderson took on the role of R.E. director, teaching Sunday School and leading the youth group himself to help revive both programs. The church grew in both size and attendance, drawn by the content and intellectual depth of his ministry. New residents, as well as long-time community members who previously had no church affiliation, became a part of the church family. Inspired by his leadership and example, the church trustees became more engaged and assumed greater responsibility in the church’s affairs. Younger members also began to participate more actively, served on committees, and were elected to the board. The Rev. Anderson’s ministry also brought greater volunteer involvement in the church program. Upon his retirement in 2000, the Second Congregation Meeting House Society honored him as their minister emeritus.

In addition to his parish ministry, the Rev. Anderson was a recognized leader in the Nantucket community. He served as an elected member of the community school board, where he was known as a concerned, informed citizen and a compassionate realist. He volunteered at the Nantucket Fire Department as a fireman, a chaplain, and an aerial ladder man.

Ted was a vigorous and lively presence. His candor and honesty allowed others to invest their trust and confidence in him. Deeply passionate about Chaucer, he spent much of his life studying The Canterbury Tales in depth. He could recite a verse in Old English, sing a folk song in Russian, reference teachings from ancient religions, and was interested in the politics of 14th-century Europe.

After retirement, Ted and Gretchen traveled the world, studying art history, and continued to tend their gardens, bees, and hens at their beloved home, Two Sheds Farm.

Ted is survived by his wife Gretchen Anderson; children Kathy Caldwell, Candee Adams, and Roger Anderson; and grandchildren Doug Caldwell, Rachael Caldwell, and Eric Adams.

A memorial gathering will took place on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Second Congregational Meeting House Society, UU.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Second Congregational Meeting House Society, UU, 11 Orange Street, PO Box 1023, Nantucket MA 02554. Notes of condolences can be sent to Gretchen Anderson, 31 Somerset Rd, Nantucket MA 02554.

The Rev. Daniel Brosier

The Rev. Daniel “Dan” Brosier died on February 16, 2025, at the age of 71 (1953-2025).

Dan was born on April 14, 1953, in Midland MI, to James Sam Brosier and Emily Catharine Brosier. A high-achieving student, he graduated in the top 10% of his high school class and served as Student Council President. He went to Michigan State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in biology in 1976. After college, he worked at Interlochen Arts Academy in northern Michigan, starting as a dormitory counselor and later advancing to Dean of Students. From 1984–1986, Dan worked as a preschool teacher at Skytown Preschool in Berkeley CA. He then worked as a church gardener and assistant sexton at the First Unitarian Church in Berkeley before earning his Master of Divinity from Starr King School for the Ministry in 1987. Dan had long felt called to the UU ministry. As a UU minister, his calling was to support the development of others and encourage theological exploration. Whether through Sunday services, Life Span Religious Education, one-on-one counseling, committee meetings, retreats, social gatherings, or the everyday activities of the community, he sought to nurture spiritual growth and connection.

The Rev. Brosier was ordained to the UU ministry by the First Unitarian Church of Worcester MA on November 15, 1987. The following year (1988), he accepted a call from the UU Church of Elgin IL, where he would serve until 2013. Under his leadership, the congregation experienced a profound transformation, fostering a spirit of unity and collaboration. The whole attitude of the congregation changed for the better. He was a vibrant and inspirational leader to the congregation; he encouraged open dialogue and helped members work through their differences. He played a key role in the development of the church’s social concerns committee. During his tenure, several building projects were undertaken; he even served as a general contractor during construction efforts and was the only contractor of their current building. In recognition of his decades of dedicated service, the Elgin church honored him as their minister emeritus in 2013.

The Rev. Brosier was an excellent preacher and a very personable minister. He could listen to others and make them feel heard, valued, and affirmed. He brought a sense of steadiness to his ministry and found deep fulfillment in helping and working alongside others, embracing his ministry as a path of service and shared discovery.

In addition to his parish ministry, Rev. Brosier provided his services to the broader denomination. He was a member of the UUMA and the Extension Committee of the Pacific Central District (1986). He served as an Administrative Assistant to the Pacific Central District (1986) and contributed to the Central Midwest District’s RE Committee (1991–1994). In 1993, the Rev. Brosier served the CMD UUMMA Chapter Nominating Committee and took on the role of Youth Minister for the Chapter.

In the Elgin community, Dan was a charter member of the Board of Trustees of the Boys and Girls Club of Elgin and a member of the Elgin Interracial Clergy Alliance. His dedication to social justice extended to his roles on the Domestic Violence Advisory Board, where he served as a Domestic Violence Chaplain, offering support to those in need. He was a member of the At-Risk Youth Program Committee, the Literacy Advisory Council, and the U-46 School District’s Clergy Council.

Dan found joy in nature and cherished time spent fishing. His love for the outdoors reflected his deep appreciation for the environment, a value he carried throughout his life. He also had a sweet tooth and never missed an opportunity to enjoy his favorite treats. Traveling brought him great happiness, and he treasured every moment exploring new places with loved ones. Above all else, Dan valued time with his family, creating countless memories filled with laughter and love.

Dan’s wife Katherine, shared: “A favorite quote of his was, ‘Stay the course’. He was truly a steadying presence for the church and for his family.” Dan is survived by his wife of 37 years, Katherine; and his children: Emma (Aaron) and Sam (Sara).

A memorial gathering was held at 3 pm on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the UU Church of Elgin, 39W830 Highland Ave, Elgin IL 60124. Notes of condolence may be written here.

Memorial donations may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Notes of condolences may be written here. UURMaPA contributed to the UUMA Endowment Fund in honor of our colleague’s ministry.

Jan 9, 2025

The Rev. Edwin Charles Lynn

The Rev. Edwin “Ed” Charles Lynn died on February 10, 2025, at the age of 89 (1935-2025).

Ed was born in Hartford CT, on November 12, 1935, to Charles K. Lynn and Edna C. Lynn. He spent most of his early years in Manchester CT, where he attended Manchester High School. An Eagle Scout, he excelled in athletics, earning a state record in the long jump and on the cross-country team, and participating in basketball.

Ed pursued a career in architecture, graduating as a valedictorian with a Bachelor of Architecture from the Syracuse University School of Architecture, NY in 1958. While at Syracuse, he was introduced to Unitarianism and became involved with the Syracuse May Memorial Unitarian Church. After attaining his architectural registration in Colorado, Ed and his wife settled in Denver, where he worked for an architectural firm.

In 1961, Ed transitioned from architecture to liberal education, joining the Great Book Foundation as Southwest Area Director and relocating to Dallas TX. Over time, he felt that liberal education provided the general knowledge necessary for developing a worldview, but ultimately, one’s conduct and judgment stemmed from the principles or convictions shaped by religion. He believed that primary development is religious in origin and felt a call to cultivate intellectually perceptive and spiritually sensitive individuals.

The Unitarian church, through the precepts of democratic action, spiritual freedom, and individual thought, embodied the ideals that Ed most valued and offered a meaningful path for his contributions. As a UU minister, he sought to draw attention to the broad spectrum of the world and hoped that the members of the church would become stimulated by the varied concepts of philosophies and religion. In 1967, he graduated from Starr King School for the Ministry with his Master of Divinity.

The Rev. Lynn was ordained on December 10, 1967, by the First Unitarian Society of Milford NH, where he served his first ministry, 1967–1972. During his tenure, he became committed to creating an atmosphere of meditation and beauty as an integral dimension of religious experience. As a result, worship services began having greater meaning. Music became more varied and relevant, the service format became more direct and simpler, and congregational participation flourished. The Rev. Lynn brought creativity and vision to the pulpit and beyond. He conducted several experimental programs and provided leadership for better artistic standards for the Sunday services, helping the church become recognized as a major contributor to the intellectual and artistic life of the wider community. He also initiated small group activities, from a play reading group to a contemporary issues discussion group. Under his leadership, the church’s religious education program was revitalized with a more relevant curriculum and scheduling procedure, and the adult programs became diversified and active.

In 1972, the Rev. Lynn accepted a call from the Northshore UU Church in Danvers MA, where he would serve for 33 years until his retirement (1972–2005). Through Sunday services, sermons, traditions, rites of passage, community service, and a whole range of ministerial activities, he brought beauty and peace as well as awareness and challenges to the members. He helped create a community where each member shared their talents and interests for the spiritual enrichment of all. In 2005, in recognition of his decades of dedicated service, the Northshore UU Church honored him as their minister emeritus.

In addition to his parish ministries, Rev. Lynn held various leadership roles within the denomination. He completed two terms on the UUA Ministerial Fellowship Committee and was a co-coordinator for the Conference for Architects and Consultants at the UUA. He worked as a denominational counselor at Harvard Divinity School, 1986–1987, participated in the UUA Pamphlet Commission, and contributed cartoons to the UUA Ministers Association Newsletter. Furthermore, he served on the board of the UUA Religious Arts Guild and was President of the UU Ministers Association.

He brought a unique blend of ministry and architectural expertise to the denomination, serving as an architectural consultant to over 20 UU churches. He was recognized as an outstanding facilitator and helped congregations move from general program goals to specific architectural priorities. His interest in remodeling existing facilities and the cooperative building of new structures culminated in the Beacon Press book, Tired Dragons: Adapting Church Architecture To Changing Needs.

Ed also served his local communities as president of the New Hampshire/Vermont Ministers Association and Board Chair of the District Church Programs Committee. He served on the board of the Isaac Munroe Foundation. In North Shore communities of Boston, he was active with the Danvers Clergy Association and the North Shore Hospice.

In his leisure time, he enjoyed drawing, playing tennis, listening to music, reading, and taking long walks. During retirement, Ed and his wife Marj spent a great deal of time traveling the world and at the beach, enjoying the coastal amenities of Ipswich and the North Shore of Massachusetts. All they needed to be content was the sea, cappuccino, and each other.

Ed is survived by his children Bruce (Lori) and Sharyl (Scott); and grandchildren Isley, Chase, Katrina, and Max. He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Marjorie Lynn.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the Northshore UU Church, 323 Locust St, Danvers MA 01923. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Marj Lynn Memorial Fund, with checks payable to NSUU (‘Marj Lynn Memorial Fund’ in Memo) c/o Northshore UU Church, 323 Locust Street, Danvers MA 01923. Notes of condolences may be written here.

Melanie DeMore to Appear at Spring 2025 Conference

The conference planning team is excited to welcome Melanie DeMore for a concert as part of the spring conference, April 21 through 23. Melanie will appear in the third session on the first day of the conference.

Singer-songwriter Melanie DeMore has a remarkable voice, weaving the fibers of African American folk music with soulful ballads, spirituals and her own original music. DeMore artfully brings her audience together through her music and commentary. She has toured extensively, singing at festivals, universities, in coffee houses and concert halls. Her recordings “Share My Song” and “Come Follow Me” are heartfelt collections of her music.

In addition to her solo work, DeMore facilitates vocal workshops for professional and community-based choral groups and has taught her program called “Sound Awareness” in schools, prisons, and youth organizations in the US, Canada, Cuba and New Zealand.

DeMore was a California Artist in Residence with the Oakland Youth Chorus for 10 years and has received an award from the Music Educators National Conference for her work with young singers and artists. She is on the music faculty at St. Paul’s School in Oakland CA where she teaches a cappella singing. DeMore is also a founding member of the Grammy nominated, critically-acclaimed vocal ensemble “Linda Tillery and the Cultural Heritage Choir,” a group that tours extensively in this country and abroad.

DeMore traces her interest in music to her parents who started one of the first Black theater groups in Alaska in the early 60’s. DeMore majored in music at Incarnate Word University in San Antonio, Texas, and later worked as a studio musician, was a member of a melodrama company, sang in the black women’s a cappella group Scintilla, sang for commercials and wrote music for the theater.

DeMore describes her music as “in the African-American folk tradition of Odetta,” to whom she has often been compared, noting, “I have a very, very, very low voice.” She has shared the stage with numerous artists including Buffy Saint Marie, John Prine, Josh White, Jr., Laura Nyro, Sweet Honey in the Rock and Pete Seeger.

Known to the mothers of screaming babies as a human pacifier. Known to the parents of difficult children as the child whisperer, she transforms the raw energy of human beings into flowing rhythms, self empowering awareness, with a sweet top note of humor and not taking oneself too seriously. An admitted kid at heart, Melanie loves to inject her effervescent playfulness into traditionally serious forums and gatherings, reminding us to lighten up, step “out the way” and let our spirits do their dance.

In her own words: “A song can hold you up when there’s no ground beneath you.”

Other features of this conference will be Odysseys with Scotty McLennan and Phyllis Morales, and a service of remembrance honoring those we’ve lost. We’ll also have the chance to meet our colleagues in Connecting Rooms and worship services. For more information about these features of the conference, please make sure your contact information is updated at our website and watch for email from us. Our FaceBook page will also be updated with conference news.

Registration for the conference is now open. Go here to register:
https://uurmapa.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/2752248
Tuition is $45.00, a bargain these days. Financial aid is available and you can apply for that by sending a message to [treasurer@uurmapa.org].

This conference will be Zoomed, but two in-person pods will be organized, in Wilmington DE and in Kingston MA. If you wish to attend either of these pods, you can indicate that when you register. More news about pods will be forthcoming.

The Rev. Barbara J. Carlson

The Rev. Barbara J. Carlson died on January 28, 2025, at the age of 90 (1934-2025).

Barbara was born on April 17, 1934, in East Chicago IN to Russell Theodore Carlson, Sr., and Lova Kleckner Carlson. She attended North Central College in Naperville IL, graduating cum laude in 1956 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology. She continued her education at Louisiana State University, earning a Master’s degree in Social Work in 1966. Barbara spent several years working as a social worker specializing in Child and Family welfare and teaching at the university level before answering her call to ministry.

In the 1970s, she discovered Unitarian Universalism—a serendipitous occasion that changed, enriched, and revolutionized her life. In 1978, she became a member of the Unitarian Church of Baton Rouge LA. She served the church in numerous roles, including Chair of the Membership Committee, member of the Ministerial Relations Committee, Delegate to the General Assembly, and Church President. During her years of service, she actively contributed to the congregation’s growth and vitality. It was in Baton Rouge that Barbara first felt the call to ministry. As she participated in social activities and committee work, she experienced the warmth of a caring community, and the delight of developing friendships with UUs of different ages, backgrounds, and theological positions. This transformative experience set her on the path to ministry where she sought to create a beloved community, nurture souls, and foster peace and justice in larger communities. In 1990, she received her Master of Divinity from Starr King School for the Ministry.

The Rev. Carlson was ordained on May 2, 1992, by the First Unitarian Church of Cleveland OH where she served as an associate minister from 1990–1993. Under her leadership, the Religious Education program flourished, growing both in size and depth to become one of the church’s strongest offerings. She worked closely with the committee members and helped develop a comprehensive adult education program that addressed a wide range of interests across the congregation. The Rev. Carlson ministered in a very caring and loving way and played a vital role in the church’s healing process. Her guidance and positive influence helped strengthen the church laying a foundation for a better future.

In 1993, she accepted a call from the UU Church of Bloomington IN. She served the Bloomington church until her retirement in 2005. Under her leadership, the order of service became an art form—a more consistent, organic expression of worship, seamlessly integrating music, readings, and other spiritual elements. Her ministry was characterized by her spiritual guidance, her ability to foster a sense of community within both the congregation and the larger Bloomington area, and her steady leadership during times of dynamic change. She also created one of the earliest examples of co-ministry (not by married spouses), inviting both the Rev. Mary Ann Macklin and the Rev. Bill Breeden to join her in a triumvirate co-ministry team. Upon her retirement in 2005, the church honored her as their minister emerita.

The Rev. Carlson had an excellent capacity to relate to individuals and groups, marked by her sensitivity to the feelings and behavior of others. She could empathize with others without losing a sense of her own identity and her creativity in building human relationships. Beyond her ministry, she demonstrated outstanding concern and involvement in community issues and provided leadership in social action. She served as chair of the Committee on Personnel and Work Incentive for the Louisiana Child Protection Task Force. She contributed as a member of the River Region Mental Health Review Team.

Barbara had a wide range of passions and interests that informed her ministry and personal life. She was devoted to ecological issues and the future well-being of our planet. Her interests included the arts (visual, music, dance, theatre, literature, drama) and travel.

Barbara is survived by her husband John Crosby; daughters Laurel C. Roberts (Jim) and Dawn C. Ross; as well as her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Two memorial services were planned, one in Baton Rouge LA, and the other in Bloomington IN.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Unitarian Church of Baton Rouge, 8470 Goodwood Blvd, Baton Rouge LA 70806; or the Unitarian Universalist Church of Bloomington, 2120 N. Fee Lane, Bloomington IN 47408. UURMaPA contributed to the UUMA Endowment Fund in honor of our colleague’s ministry.

Notes of condolence may be sent to:

John Crosby, 800 Bell Trace Circle #257, Bloomington IN 47408
Laurel and Jim Roberts, 10635 Oakley Trace Dr. Baton Rouge LA 70809
Dawn Ross, 9324 Pine Cone Court, Baton Rouge LA 70809

Carole Green

Carole Green, 90, wife of the Rev. Dr. Robert Green, died January 14, 2025, In Santa Rosa CA. She was born December 2, 1934 in Chicago to Jalmar and Anna Perttula. Her two sisters, Viola and Marie, were 15 and 16 years older, “bonus mothers” to Carole. She grew up in Redwood City CA, and graduated from Sequoia High School. She attended Santa Rosa Junior College then San Francisco State University, where she earned a B.A. and a teaching credential.

Carole used to joke that if a car came by and the passenger door was open, she would hop in. She almost wasn’t kidding. When she lived in Portland OR, she overheard a recently widowed woman at the UU Fellowship express anxiety about taking a cross-country road trip alone. Without hesitation, Carole, then in her 70s, offered to join her and even volunteered to drive her car. Although Carole had never met the woman before, off they went. Carole made friends easily, and they stopped to visit several along the way. Her love of “going on an adventure” never faded, though more recently, her road trips were mainly limited to cruising around beautiful Sonoma County with her daughter at the wheel.

While living in San Francisco Carole met her husband, Robert, after accidentally driving the wrong way down a one-way street. They lived in many places, including San Diego, Ohio, Japan, Massachusetts, Vermont, Georgia, and Michigan. In 1973, they settled in Stockton CA, where they raised their “triple-trouble trio” Christopher, Kimberley, and Channing. Carole taught mostly second grade until her retirement in 1996.

After Robert passed away in 2003, Carole relocated to Portland OR, to be near daughter Kimberley and family. Later, they spent two years in Clovis NM, before returning to Santa Rosa in 2011.

Carole passed away peacefully, at home with Kimberley and wonderful caregiver Pau Dianimoto by her side. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Reverend Dr. Robert Edward Green; sons Christopher and Channing Green; and sisters Marie Francescutti and Viola Andreini. Carole is survived by daughter Kimberley (Chris) Gibson, and two grandchildren.

A gathering in her honor was held in Santa Rosa on February 22, 2025. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Stockton CA.

The Rev. John Richard Weston

The Rev. John Richard “Dick” Weston died on January 4, 2025, at the age of 89 (1935-2025).

Dick was born on December 13, 1935, in Schenectady NY, to Robert T. Weston and Ruth Boddy Weston. His father was a minister of the First Unitarian Society of Schenectady. Throughout his childhood, the family moved frequently, living in Lexington MA; Jacksonville FL; Morris Plains,NJ; and Brockton MA, before settling in Louisville KY. There, Dick pursed his education, earning a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Louisville (1960). After college, he worked as a publicity writer for a Louisville radio and television station.

Throughout his college and working years, Dick remained deeply connected to the church, finding purpose and fulfillment in church-related work and community affairs. As his commitment deepened, he realized that the most meaningful life for him could only be found in the Unitarian Universalist ministry. He believed that the UU ministry would allow him to live a life that was both honest and meaningful, while helping others do the same. After three years in his publicity role, he resigned to pursue his calling and enrolled at Starr King School for the Ministry, receiving his Master of Divinity degree in 1963.

The Rev. Weston was ordained on October 13, 1963, by the UU Fellowship of Los Gatos CA, where he served as the Fellowship’s first minister (1963–1966). He then continued his ministry at the UU Congregation of Whittier, CA (1966–1970); the UU Fellowship of Centre County PA (1971–1976); and the UU Church of Jacksonville FL (1976–1981). In 1981, he accepted a call from the North Shore Unitarian Church, Deerfield IL, where he would serve until 1988. He then went on to minister at the First Universalist Parish of Santa Paula CA (1989–1991) and the UU Church of Ventura CA (1991–2000). In recognition of his years of dedicated service, the Ventura Church honored him as their minister emeritus in 2000.

From 2002–2003, the Rev. Weston took on the role of an interim minister at the Auckland Unitarian Church, New Zealand. Upon returning to the U.S., he continued his ministry at the UU Congregation of Lynchburg VA (2003–2006), and later served as a consulting minister for the UU Congregation of Hillsborough NC (2006–2008).

In addition to his parish and interim ministries, the Rev. Weston was engaged in denominational affairs and leadership. He was the founding president of the Pennsylvania UU Legislative Lobby (1971–1972), served as Continental Newsletter Editor and Executive Committee member of the UUMA (1975–1977), and was president of the Florida Chapter of the UUMA. He also served as president of the Alumni Association of Starr King School for the Ministry (1985–1986) and as a consulting minister for the UU Fellowship of Conejo Valley, Thousand Oaks CA (1990). Additionally, he was on the planning committee for the Pacific Southwest District UUMA Chapter Retreat (1990–1991).

Dick was involved in the broader community leadership as well. He served as President of the ACLU of Central PA (1975–1976) and the Chicago Area Liberal Ministers (1982–1983). He was Vice President of the U.S. Chapter of International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF, 1984–1987), and a board member of the Leadership Council for Metropolitan Open Communities, Chicago (1985–1988).

In his leisure time, he found joy in writing poetry and collecting art objects and works. He also enjoyed jogging and camping as ways to stay connected with nature.

Dick is survived by his children Alisse W. Fisher, Chris Weston, Bruce Weston (Kim), Brian Wilkinson (Valerie), and David Wilkinson; 21 grandkids, and 13 great-grandkids; as well as beloved Westons, Wilkinsons, friends and colleagues. He was preceded in death by his wife Mary Weston-Jones; stepson Jeff Wilkinson; and brother Robert T. Weston, Jr.

A memorial service was held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Community Church of Chapel Hill UU, 106 Purefoy Rd, Chapel Hill NC 27514. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Notes of condolences may be written here.

Paula Kreisberg Ulrich

Paula Kreisberg Ulrich died on January 1, 2025, in Edmonton, Alberta, at the age of 88 (1936-2025). She is survived by her husband the Rev. Carl Ulrich, daughter Micaela, son Jethro, five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by stepson Benjamin Ulrich.

Paula was born in New York City, on May 17, 1936, the daughter of Ralph Kreisberg and Natalie Liflander. She attended City and Country School and later, Fieldston Ethical Culture School in NY. She graduated from Antioch College in Yellow Springs OH, majoring in Child Development and later from the University of California at Berkeley, with an MSW degree in Clinical Social Work.

In 1972, Paula and her family immigrated to Canada and settled in the Peers area, near Edson, Alberta. She and her husband were part of the “back to the land” movement.

After her children were grown, Paula worked at the Edson Office of Alberta Mental Health and later set up her own private practice, Fireweed Counselling. Paula had a major stroke in 2000, after which she and Carl retired to Edmonton.

She is survived by her husband the Rev. Carl Ulrich; daughter Micaela (Scot Morgan); and son Jethro (Ania), five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents, brother Michael Kreisberg, and stepson Benjamin Ulrich.

A Celebration of Paula’s Life was held on January 11, 2025, at the Westwood Unitarian Congregation in Edmonton.

In lieu of flowers, friends are welcome to make a donation in Paula’s memory to Seed Change, 56 Sparks Street, #600, Ottawa, Ontario K1P 5B1.

Presidential Ponderings

By Susan Veronica Rak, UURMaPA Board President

December, 2024

Greetings, friends!

Years ago, I came across a cartoon—might have been a New Yorker gem—that pictured a sporting goods store with a sign in the window: “Now Is the Winter of Our Discount Tents.” Not sure why this stuck with me—maybe because it’s such a sly Shakespeare pun.

As I write, we in the States are, in one way or another, reckoning with the changing landscape of this country’s essence and being. But this is not another hand-wringing essay of worry and fear (although those things dance at the margins), even as we feel a winter of discontent approaching.

Now we need to find those havens of comfort or support and encouragement that will carry us through. Because this is also the season of gratitude. The lingering darkness is a thing of beauty when holiday lights shine. There are, amidst the sadness and concern, whether it’s personal or political, shining shards of hope and support and, dare I say it, joy.

We’re on the brink of the winter holidays and perhaps you aren’t feeling very festive. Understandable. But we still need to find joy and grace and festivity in the midst of the gloom. UURMaPA continues to be one of those places where we can find hope and joy, even when we only gather occasionally. The threads of support are there, nonetheless.

Most of the time when I talk about UURMaPA, I’m given to earnestly touting the good that we do as an organization and the ways we connect within this small community. Maybe it’s an idealized version of who we are. But it is who we aspire to be as a community of retired Unitarian Universalists, ministers and partners or spouses. Do we always get it right? Is it always seamless and effortless to make these connections? No. But maybe that kind of perfection isn’t the point.

The heart of the matter is that we carry on. We pivot and adjust as circumstances require. And we keep trying. Differing groups of people have kept this organization alive and thriving in various ways for almost 40 years.

In these coming days and months, we will keep on in these endeavors, amidst changes and uncertainties. Please stay in touch and involved in whatever ways that work for you, so that the connections we make here in UURMaPA remain vital. We are here. And I, for one, am so grateful to have YOU in my community!

Warmly, Susan