Columbus, NC - Doris "Petie" Kaericher, 89, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2016 surrounded by her loving family. Petie was born on August 17, 1926, the only child of William F. and Bertha C. Peters. She grew up in Chicago, attended Valparaiso University and graduated as a registered nurse from Chicago's Presbyterian School of Nursing in 1950. After raising her children, Petie returned to college to study art, and received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1978. Petie and Clyde, her husband of 63 years, were married in 1952 in Chicago IL. They began their married life in Fort Bliss, TX where Clyde was stationed as a First Lieutenant in the Army. Clyde's career took them to Minnesota, Florida and California and Connecticut. They finally retired in Tryon, North Carolina in 1992 and moved to Tryon Estates in 2008. Petie and Clyde built a wonderful life together. They raised three children and she was a devoted wife and mother, immersing herself in making a home for her family wherever they lived. Petie was also a dedicated and tireless volunteer. She was an active member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Stamford, CT, and served as President of its women's organization. She worked as a registered nurse with Red Cross Bloodmobiles for 25 years and volunteered in a variety of capacities in her childrens' schools and activities. After moving to Tryon, Petie was active in the Congregational Church of Tryon, serving as a Stephen Minister, President of the Church Council, Chairman of the Harvest Festival, President of the Women's Fellowship, a member of the New Hymnal Committee, and a Chairman of the Call Committee. Petie also devoted many volunteer hours to the Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry, serving on the Board of Directors and as President of that organization. In addition, Petie volunteered with Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, was inducted into the Second Wind Hall of Fame in 2004 and was a member of its Board. Petie embraced life passionately. She was a gifted sculptor and loved art of all kinds, as well as music and poetry. She enjoy playing bridge, reading, traveling virtually anywhere, learning virtually anything, and exchanging ideas in lively discussions. She strove to pass those passions on to her children. Throughout her life, animals of all types held a special place in her heart. Petie is survived by her husband Clyde, two daughters, Susan (Ralph) Carlson of Batavia, IL and Cathleen (James) Condren of Darien, CT, five grandchildren, Eric (Carey), Jon, and Kristin (Aaron) Carlson, Daniel and Katherine Condren, and three great-grandchildren, Zachary, Benjamin and Caden, all of whom adored her. She was predeceased by a beloved son, John, in 1990. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 23 at 11:00 a.m. at the Congregational Church of Tryon. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, 130 Forest Glen Drive, Columbus, NC 28722.
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