Terri was a dedicated member of our Chapter since 2001 and touched the lives of many through her gracious and kind soul, knowledge, and dedication to community service. Terri epitomized the National Charity League spirit in everything she did. She was a selfless, generous, and compassionate friend, and she gave unconditionally from the heart. Her love for NCL was endless, and her commitment to our San Fernando Valley Chapter and our philanthropy partners will forever be remembered.
Terri was a long time member of the Board of Directors. She held more positions than we could possibly detail here, but of note, she was Chapter Parliamentarian, VP Philanthropy, a member of Advisory Council, SWANs, many, many Charity Ball committees, and the heart of our philanthropy events, including the West Valley Food Pantry Toy Drive. We were always amazed by her impeccable attention to EVERY detail, big or small, and her superb organizational skills. Terri’s ability to find any document or historical reference during the notebook days of NCL was unmatched. We routinely relied on her for one of her many skills …redlining a document…a skill she taught the parliamentarians who followed her. Nothing got past Terri’s eagle eyes. Her notebooks, reports, and admiration for the rollerball pen (if you know, you know) will always be NCL treasures. Terri’s background as an attorney was a tremendous asset to our Chapter, and her knowledge and expertise is clearly demonstrated in our Chapter’s governing documents. She could always be relied on for her vast knowledge of our Chapter’s history, traditions, and culture.
Terri is survived by her husband Ed; her daughters, Sustainer Ticktockers and Post Debutantes Lauren and Caroline; her sons Luke and Austin; and her two grandchildren Blake and Annabel.
A memorial service for Terri will be held at the Church at Rocky Peak in Chatsworth at 10:00 am on March 17, 2023, with a reception to follow at the Zaelke home in Chatsworth. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that remembrances be made in the form of contributions to the National Charity League, Inc., San Fernando Valley Chapter, which in turn will be distributed to our philanthropy partners in her honor.
Terri’s friendship, beautiful presence, sparkling eyes and contagious smile will forever be missed.