George Thelen Obituary

Thelen, Sr, George A

George A. Thelen Sr., age 86, of Gobles, passed away at home on February 15, 2026, with his family by his side. He was the son of Walter and Eleanor Thelen, born on March 17, 1939, in Chicago, IL. George attended St. Rita of Cascia. On October 22, 1960, he married his love of life, Betty Thelen, whom he met in grammar school.

George spent most of his life proudly serving as a Chicago Fireman for 32 years, working on Engine 29, Truck 52, and later as an Engineer at Engine 47. He was a brother of the Barrel and participated in the 1980 strike. After his retirement in 1997, he and Betty devoted much of their time to traveling throughout North America.

An avid golfer, George was happiest wherever golf could be found. In the late 1970s, he and Betty purchased the Kozy Nest Resort in Grand Junction, which they operated until 1987. They later settled permanently in the Duck Lake area in 1995. George loved spending time on the lake, especially when his grandchildren visited. Above all, he cherished his family, who brought him the greatest joy of his life.

George was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty, and his brothers, Walter (Moose) and Bobby.

He is survived by his children, George (Gina) Thelen Jr. of Chicago, IL; Laura Thelen of Woodridge, IL; and Anne (Gil) Garza of Glen Ellyn, IL; his grandchildren, Paige, Luke, Jill, Johnny, Jeffrey, Jacklyn, Emily, and Garrett; his great-granddaughters, Jesse and Georgie; and many dear friends.

Memorial Visitation for George will be on Saturday, March 21st, 2026 at St. Faustina Kowalska Church (Former St. Jane de Chantal Parish), 5251 South McVicker Ave, Chicago, IL 60638 from 9:30am until 11:00am. Funeral Mass is at 11:00am.

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