Therese Ellen Windt

1958 - 2013

Therese Ellen Windt obituary, 1958-2013, Alexandria, VA

Therese Windt Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jul. 8, 2013.

Therese Ellen Windt died on July 5, 2013 at home with her family. Born on March 27, 1958, she was Class Valedictorian of her Hayfield High School class of 1976. She went on to University of North Carolina, where she graduated with honors, earning a degree in Economics.

Working toward her ultimate career goal-Secretary of Health and Human Services-Therese took a job after graduation at the Brookings Institute think tank before entering UCLA's Master's Program in Public Health. She pursued her degree while working full-time as an analyst at Cedar Sinai Medical Center.
One month before completing work on her master's, she experienced a traumatic brain injury. Doctors predicted she would not walk or talk again. Aided by her own determination and the love and support of her parents and siblings during five years of rehab, she proved them wrong.

Not only did Therese walk and talk again, for 22 years, she held an analyst position at the United States Department of Agriculture. During her time at USDA, she chaired a committee for employees with disabilities. She was chosen for a special assignment with Health and Human Services to head a project for disabled employees.
With a life-long commitment to education, Therese earned a Master's Degree in 2000 from George Washington University in Information Systems.

Outside of work, Therese was an active volunteer and leader. She served as President of her Toastmasters Club and provided leadership to the local head-injured group. As a member of Mount Vernon Presbyterian church, she participated in Agape Reservoir, a ministry for people with special needs. She also participated in the Burke Presbyterian Church TreeHouse, a ministry that advocates for the rights and responsibilities of persons with disabilities in the life of the church.
Most of all Therese valued time with her family and friends. They will continue to be inspired by her generous spirit, her zest for life, her belief in education, her determination, her perseverance, her gratitude and her loving soul.

Therese is survived by her mother and father, Dolores and James Windt, her siblings, Fran (Scott) Akridge, Gerard (Julie)and John (Kelly) as well her nieces and nephews, Jesse, Jared, Jaime and Joshua Windt. Extended family includes Michael and Janet Muto and family, the Boretti families, the Mazzola families and the Tassinari family. In addition, the many friends who made the journey with Therese are included.

Services for Therese will be held at Demaine Funeral Home, 5308 Backlick Rd, Springfield, VA on Sunday, July 14 at 2pm.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the OVARIAN CANCER RESEARCH FUND (ocrf.org) or the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition(ovarian.org).

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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Not sure what to say?

March 27, 2023

Friend

John Gall

In memory.

August 29, 2013

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Windt,

Very sorry to hear about Therese. My condolences to you and your family.

Sincerely,

Kent Campbell

August 22, 2013

Edith Belt

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Windt,

My sincere condolences on the passing of Therese. I never met her, but her name is so familiar to me because you, Mrs. Windt, used to talk so much about her when you were my teacher. I know she was a lovely person who will be sorely missed.

August 3, 2013

To Mr. and Mrs. Windt and family

When I heard about Therese passing away, I couldn't believe it. It hit me so hard. I think about her several times a day. Sometimes I think, let me give Therese a call and then remember I can't. She was such a great person, why did it happened to her. She was my T, and I miss her. We had such great times, talking on the phone about Springsteen, Southside Johnny, U2 and Neil Young. When we went to rock concerts we always had a great time. She would always tell me about her babys (Dog and Cat). About Metro Access and how her day went at work. About "Seinfeld", at first she said she didn't like it, but after watching a few more episodes, she was hooked. It was great when we joined the bowling league. She was always better than me, but she wouldn't rub it in. When we would meet Matt Brooker at Springfield Mall and have lunch at Ruby Tuesdays and go see a movie.
I could talk to her about anything. It was like she could read me. She knew if something was wrong. I could ask her questions and she would just teach me and give me advice. Again I'm truly sorry about your loss. She was a great friend and person who was loved by many many people. I know that we will see each other again. I know she has moved on to a better place and does not have to endure the pain she did on earth.

Love,
John McHale

July 19, 2013

John Gall

"It's the brain damage thing" Therese replied.

I realized when we started dating that we hadn't operated in the same circles, would've never associated with each - didn't 'see eye to eye' on most things (so, we just never talked about those things LOL)yet we were "right" for each other. We briefly talked about this phenomenon once; the line from Tom Petty's "Refugee" brought it up: We both got something, we both know it, we don't talk too much about it. Therese said "It's that brain damaged thing."

What is that "thing"? That thing is not just the empathy that exists between those of shared circumstances, that "thing" what we consciously or sub-consciously shared with others of a similar condition. It's the passion that ensues because of a traumatic experience. We shared truly traumatic events, or passions with each other. And we didn't just share then with each others, but with everybody else who had suffered any traumatic experience in their life. And trauma's trauma, big or small.

We both realized that, and you've got to play the hand that's dealt. The corollary to that is "the house always wins." You know what, though? The house doesn't really win because we exist no matter because we are made in God's image and God is eternal.

It's the passion of existence.

July 19, 2013

Jason Lamprecht

Windt family - I was a Toastmaster with Therese during my 5 years in DC working for USDA-NASS. She was a great inspiration, her smile was cheering, and she was a wonderful person to be around. My condolences and prayers for you during these days.

July 16, 2013

John Windt

Posted by John Windt

July 16, 2013

John Windt

Posted by John Windt

July 16, 2013

John Windt

Posted by John Windt

July 14, 2013

John Gall

All things BRUCE!

I want to thank everyone for sharing their memories of Therese, I had forgotten our eternal link - BRUCE! When I learned of of Therese's rightful adoration of the Boss, I quickly excused her being a devotee of Yusuf Islam (nee Cat Stevens). Besides, she was much younger then her musical taste hadn't yet developed. And I newer held the bowling experience against her, how was she to know that to ask me to go bowling was like asking a man with only one thumb to play pool?

I also had forgotten that pizza was our usual fare and our outings to the Chinese restaurant. I will always have a fond memories of our Friday nights outings to Old Town to the Confectionary Shop for a pastry and a cup of cappuccino. Now,a cup of coffee after 5 guarantees me a night of fitful sleep.

And while my memories of food are foremost in my mind (When isn't food foremost on my mind?)I have to give special attention to the always full Windt pantry. If you couldn't find anything to eat at the Windt's means you weren't looking. By our 3rd or 4th date I commented to Therese about the abundance of donuts and such and told her parents didn't have to indulge my sweet tooth. She scoffed and told me it wasn't my sweet tooth they were indulging but I was always welcome to partake in the bounty. Not wanting to be an ingrate, I always partook in the bounty.

The book remains open until August, I'll be sharing more memories later.

July 13, 2013

Strother Sharp

Dear Windts, I have loved Therese since I met her at Carolina in 1976. When I was fortunate enough to meet her lovely parents and family, I fell in love with them too. When I think of Therese, I think first of her unshakeable good humor. Therese had a rare ability to find the humor in absolutely any situation, no matter how painful or absurd. I also think of her desire to do something good for the world and make it a better place. I think of her kindness and her devotion to her beloved dogs and cats, and her rollicking household on Hayfield Drive where everyone was constantly researching the latest museum or art exhibit. It was a house where knowledge was valued and everyone was encouraged to pursue their dreams, with lots of good humor and abundant food to fuel the journey! Therese personified determination and defeated the odds throughout her illness, for which her devoted family deserves all credit. I know that Tish, Helen, Melanie, and I consider our wonderful memories of Therese among our most precious treasures. The slide show is absolutely fantastic, a poignant way to see the evolution of Therese's wonderful smile! I feel truly blessed to have known her. May you all find peace in the days to come.

July 13, 2013

Tish Triplett

Dolores, Jim, and family,
My heart hurts at the loss of Therese. I am so glad that us Carolina girls were able to come and share laughs with her over the last almost 3 years. I am glad that my family was also able to meet her and know her. Therese was indeed an amazing person who kept a positive attitude and sense of humor even in the very difficult times of her life. The days in Morrison dorm at UNC were ones that I'll never forget (and will never tell my children). We five Morrison girls met there, and have continued our friendship over the past 35 years. It was Therese that brought us together from all over the US. We will all miss her terribly.
May you find peace in the coming days and weeks. We know that Therese is at peace and in that, we rejoice.

July 12, 2013

Melanie Sill

To the Windt family -- you are all in my thoughts and prayers as you say farewell to Therese. I was fortunate to end up in Therese's suite at the University of North Carolina and to forge a friendship with her and three other women. I was even more fortunate to reconnect with Therese and the others a few years ago. She was smart, funny, irreverent and immersed in life, and I am grateful for having had time with her during her too-brief life. With sympathies and good wishes, Melanie

July 12, 2013

Susan Woollen

To the Windt Family--
I am so very very sad to hear of the passing of your beloved Therese.

It has been many many years since I last saw her. We met at Brookings and developed a wonderful friendship, although I was a bit older than her. When she suffered the cerebral hemorrhage, I visited several times over the months when she was in the hospital. The last time I saw her was in Dupont Circle, with her amazing smile and twinkle in her eyes.

I am so sorry that we lost touch, but thoughts of her would cross my mind.

And so, even for me, I am left with an incredible sadness in my heart, but also with a quiet sense of inspiration that comes from having known her and her incredible courage, kindness, and grace.

May memories and her amazing spirit and graciousness and love be with you always.

July 12, 2013

To Mr. and Mrs. Windt and Family: I know that it is difficult to lose someone you loved so dearly. We are glad that Therese visited a few months ago. I know that my dad always enjoyed visiting with her. You are in our thoughts and prayers and may the Lord give you comfort and blessing. Love, Craig and Diana Akridge (Huntsville, AL)

July 11, 2013

Alan Smiley

Therese has been a true friend over many difficult years. Her strength and positive attitude in the face of adversity has always been an inspiration for me.

July 11, 2013

Mike and Erika Friedman

Our daughter June met Therese waterskiing at Disabled Sports/USA. Over the years, they had a lot of adventures together and became close friends - to the point where Therese was like another family member to us. After we moved, we still made it a point to visit her whenever we were close enough to Northern Virginia. June - and we - couldn't have had a better, warmer, funnier, more intelligent, more charming friend. All of our lives are richer for knowing her and now, for having her in our hearts.

July 11, 2013

My Dear Frances, Gerard, Mr. and Mrs. Windt and Family: During these difficult times, please take comfort in knowing that your angel Therese is with you always. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and we hope that soon the sun will shine again as you remember the happiness that Therese brought to your lives.
Theresa Matacia and Patrick Scanlon (SF, CA)

July 11, 2013

John Gall

Jim and Delores

I think of Therese often and I'm often saddened by the troubles she's had to endure. But then I'm buoyed by the knowledge that we're all made in God's image and God lives forever and so does Therese.

July 11, 2013

Sylvia Magbanua

To the Windt family,
My warmest condolence to your family on the lost of your beloved daughter. I had the opportunity to work with Therese for many years while employed at USDA NASS. During those years she has been a wonderful colleague and friend. May God bless and comfort you during this time!

July 11, 2013

To Frances, Mr. and Mrs. Windt, and family:
We are touched by your love and courage during this difficult time, and the testimony Therese leaves with so many. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Mark and Loressa Shirley

July 11, 2013

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. To the Windt family may God comfort your hearts at this time. I will always cherish the times spent with Therese as we walked the halls of USDA each morning laughing and talking. Therese was truly a friend, fighter and inspiration.

- Joyce Marshall

July 10, 2013

Ken Boretti

Dear Dolores, Jim, and the entire Windt family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of deep sorrow. We ask God to give you strength and to comfort you with His peace and everlasting love. The photo book is filled with beautiful memories of Therese, her family and friends. Even in this time of great loss, we can all be comforted by the knowledge that there is much more to look forward to in our heavenly home, reunited once again with our loved ones. May God bless you all, Ken & Michelle Boretti and kids.

July 10, 2013

Annie Boone

May the God of our salvation give you strengthen and courage to go on with life. We know that Theresa was a person fill with life therefore we can let her memories help us all to live life to the fullness She never gave up so why should we

July 10, 2013

Debbie Williams

Dear Windt family, Therese was an amazing women with a beautiful smile and an always positive attitude. I worked with Therese at USDA/NASS and we had many conversations about the importance of friends and family which I will always treasure. May happy memories of Therese bring you comfort at this difficult time.

July 10, 2013

Bonnie Haley

To the Windt Family -- I am so sorry and sad for your loss. It is also a sad time for her NASS family. I met Therese over 22 years ago in our Human Resources area when we brought her on board as a Computer Specialist. I was in awe of her strength and determination. I always looked forward to her visits to my office. She was such a sweet lady and truly an inspiration to all of us. My prayers and thoughts are with you all.

July 10, 2013

King Whetstone

Therese was a wonderful and caring person. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

July 10, 2013

May God Bless and keep each of you while healing your hurting hearts. I am truly sorry for your loss in such a sweet, kind and friendly daughter, sister, neice, aunt and lastly, friend. Therese was honorable and determined in her dealings--which is a true testiment to her character, she was truly a soldier and an inspirational survivor, dedicated co-worker, and a true friend. I miss her, but I know you miss her more...Vivian Kendrick~~NASS

July 10, 2013

We are Scott and Frances' neighbors in Huntsville. We were blessed to meet Therese on two occasions. Her warmth and wit attracted us to her instantly.
Our hope is that your family finds peace in knowing that she has found hers. The Ellis Family

July 10, 2013

Muriel Laliberte

I want to express my sincere condolences to Theresa's family. It was my pleasure to have worked with her at USDA, NASS during my government career. She fought long and hard and will be remembered by her co-workers.

July 10, 2013

Florence Moore

Dear Windt family, my thoughts and prayers are with you all now. I hope you receive the strength you need to get through these painful times...

July 10, 2013

Ron & Leslie Akridge

My thoughts and prayers are with you. May you receive the strength you need to get through these painful times.

July 9, 2013

John Windt

Posted by John Windt

July 9, 2013

Vicki Mantelero

Dear Windt Family, my thoughts and prayers are with you all now. May you receive the strength you need to get through these painful times.

Fellow Hayfield Alumni class of 1978

July 9, 2013

Dear Windt Family, So sorry for your loss. Therese is an inspiration and I am pleased to have met her. Her memory lives on in our hearts.
Dee Freeman

July 9, 2013

Dear Windt Family, it saddens me to hear that Therese has left us, but gladdens me to know she is out of pain, and up and walking and smiling beside Our Lord. I think He needs her as a walking buddy now. She was so very brave, diginified and gracious, always with a smile and a generous laugh at my feeble jokes. I was honored to have known her, if only for a short year.
Sincerely, Linda Foss

July 8, 2013

John Gall

Jim and Delores,

If I had to choose the one event in my life that “turned” everything around; when I felt of value and
wasn't a stranger in a strange land, it was when Therese called and asked me to go bowling.
Therese was my first love growing up, and I was her first love; it was our second puberty. I'll speak
for both of us, growing up once was sufficient but we didn't have much choice in the matter. Which
reminds me of a line from a song we both enjoyed by Robbie Robertson, ‘you got to play the hand
that's dealt, that's what the old man always said.' My old man did always say that too!

And about bowling, I never realized until then that bowling was evil. ?

I will see you on the 14th, the 30th anniversary of my TBI.

July 8, 2013

June Friedman

I remember, exactly, how/why we met..we, both, had the same speech therapist and SHE is the one that decided we should meet because we were so much alike - that was 25 years ago and a million memories!

July 8, 2013

Scott Akridge

Dear Jim, Dolores and family,

Therese was a tremendously loving and driven woman, a pleasure to know and she encouraged numerous people. I know you'll miss her and will be praying for you.

July 8, 2013

Dear Windt Family- We are very sorry for your loss. I believe we only met Therese a handful of times but it was always lovely see her and to see such strong family bonds. She was blessed to be surrounded by so many people who loved her. The obit was beautifully written and the slide show captured so many beautiful photographs of her. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Fondly, the Zatt family

July 8, 2013

Danni Tassinari

Windt Family,
Our hearts are with you now and throughout the future. I would like to believe my Mom was there with open arms to greet her. I have truly seen what sibling dedication and love is by your example. Therese's legacy shall continue to inspire many of young and old to come. God bless her and your entire family.

July 8, 2013

Dolly Ulica

It breaks my heart to read this but what an amazing woman Theresa was, living behind you all for years and basically growing up together, I was always amazed at how Theresa always was a rock. She never let any struggles get her down. My heart is breaking for the Windt family right now and please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers.

July 8, 2013

Kathi Turner

Dearest Windy family, you are all in my heart and in my prayers. Therese is in some great company!!!! Love you all!!

Showing 1 - 43 of 43 results

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