Thelma Jean Masten Mitchell passed away on July 5, 2008, in Hoopa. Thelma, who was called Bugs or Bugsey by family and friends, was born in the old Indian hospital in Hoopa, Calif., on April 21, 1940. She was a descendent of the Masten and Marshall families and a member of the Hoopa Valley Tribe. Thelma lived her entire life in Hoopa with the exception of the World War II years when her parents moved to Eureka, where they both contributed to the war effort by working in the shipyards.

Thelma graduated from Hoopa Valley High School in 1958 and later worked for the Hupa Health Association in the dental clinic and the Field Health Department. Thelma also operated the Valley Inn and later Angelina’s Pizza in Hoopa for many years.

She was preceded in death by her parents Peter and Grace Marshall Masten, her husband Gary Mitchell and grandson Peter Stewart.

She is survived by son Richard Stewart and his children Richie, Keenan, Gordy, Milton, and Gary and grandson No-Nas’cha; daughter Brenda and spouse Walter Swenson and their children Mike, Gary, Angelina and grandchildren Joseph, and Kee Wu Nos Chay’win; daughter Lisa and Bonnie Ammon and their children Michael, Vincent, Samantha and Aiden; son James and his children, Chase, Miracle, and Hope; sisters Betty and spouse Kenneth Roberts, Lorraine and spouse Lee Robbins, Marcia and spouse Jerry Weizorek; Karen and spouse Vernon Skoglund; her brother Peter Masten and his wife Mary; and many nieces and nephews.

Thelma (Bugsey) loved to play bingo and to go to the casinos. She lived life her way and was a determined and independent person. She loved the Trinity River and grew up swimming in it as she was a strong and impressive swimmer. She would take her children and family members there to spend wonderful days.

At Thelma’s request her ashes will be spread in the Trinity River at the mouth of Supply Creek on Saturday July 12, 2008, at noon. A Celebration of Life potluck will follow at 1 p.m. in the Fire Hall.

Arrangements are made under the care of Paul’s Chapel, Arcata, Calif.