Loretta Jo (Thompson) Julich, a beloved member of the Humboldt community, passed away peacefully at home on July 20, 2025, surrounded by her cherished family. She was born on Sept. 18, 1956, in Iola, to Vaughn Eugene and Alynne Opel (Mefford) Thompson.
Her whole life was spent in Humboldt, where she graduated from Humboldt High School in 1974.
Following high school, she married the love of her life, Daniel Julich, in Iola.
Loretta dedicated many years of her life to her career at Nu-Wa Campers in Chanute before retiring to focus on her family and community involvement. She was known as a strong and loving woman whose heart was full of warmth for her loved ones.
Her profound love for her family was evident to all who knew her. She is survived by her devoted husband, Daniel, and their children, Jason Julich and Michelle (Wayne) McDown, both of Humboldt, Kansas. Loretta also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Tyler Julich and Zachary McDown, whose lives were enriched by her nurturing spirit. She is survived by her sister, Karen Sanchez of Lakeside, California, and her in-laws, Janis (Bob) Krone, David Julich, Casey Sanchez, and Becky Julich.
Loretta’s passions were many, with hobbies that included collecting snowmen, camping, attending races, traveling to flea markets, and most importantly, spending precious time with her family. Her involvement in community activities included the 4th of July Committee and the Veterans Monument Committee, and she was a member of the first Humboldt girls’ basketball team in 1972.
She is preceded in death by her parents, her grandparents, infant sister Sharon Thompson, and several in-laws, including her brothers-in-law, Kenny Julich, and Robert Julich, as well as her sister-in-law, Sheri Julich. Loretta will be remembered not only for her love and strength but also for the countless ways she touched the lives of those around her.
Memorials are suggested to Harry Hynes Hospice and can be left with or mailed to Wickham Family Funeral Home, 500 North Forest Avenue, Chanute, KS 66720.
Visitation will be 6-8 p..m. Wednesday, July 30, at Faith Assembly of God, 1019 N. Ninth St., Humboldt, allowing family and friends to come together to honor the memory of this remarkable woman.
Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 31, at the church, with burial to follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Humboldt.
Services are under the care of Wickham Family Funeral Home.
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