Obituary of James Anthony Thelen Sr

On Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2023, James Anthony Thelen Sr., age 89, of Park Rapids, MN, formerly Benson, MN, died peacefully at St. Joseph’s Hospital, surrounded by family.

Jim was born at home in Savannah Township to George and Clara (Glatzmaier) Thelen. Growing up on the family farm, he learned the value of hard work and loved the simple beauty of the land around him. It was his favorite place to be. He had many happy memories “up north” walking in the woods, planting trees, and deer hunting each year with his family.

Jim attended Becker County Rural School and graduated from Park Rapids High School in 1952. After a year at North Dakota Agricultural College (NDSU), Jim served in the United States Army and was stationed at the White Sands Proving Ground, New Mexico. When his military service ended, Jim returned to school and completed his degree at NDSU.

Jim married Patricia Anne McGarry of Melrose, MN, in June 1959 and graduated from the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Minnesota in 1962. Together, Jim and Pat raised four children in St. Paul, Canby, and Duluth before settling in Benson in 1971. Jim co-owned the Benson Vet Clinic with Dr. Paul Rolph, where he faithfully served the community until he retired in 1999, completing 37 years in veterinary medicine.

Jim was an active member of the parish of St. Francis in Benson for many years, was awarded the Bishop’s Medal of Service in 1996, and was a life member of the Knights of Columbus. In addition, Jim was always eager to volunteer in his community. He served many years with the American Legion Post #62 in Benson. His contributions included marching in parades and helping to host dinners at the VFW. As a member of the Swift County Salvation Army Committee, Jim oversaw the Red Kettle Campaign and dressed as Santa Claus while ringing the bells for the kettles each year. Jim also spent 33 years on the Swift County Republican Committee serving as Treasurer and Co-chair. He kept busy after retirement and could be found most mornings enjoying breakfast at Sandy’s Café with his friends or biking around town.

Jim was especially proud of two accomplishments: receiving his 13-gallon pin as a Red Cross blood donor and winning the Park Rapids Enterprise’s prestigious Jack Pine Savage Battle of the Beards Contest two years in a row -- in 2000 and 2001!

Jim is survived by his son, Jim (Julie) Thelen of Park Rapids; and daughter, Betsy (Phillip) Grinder of Moorhead; four grandchildren: Brittany, Cara, Nicholas and Trevor; three great-grandchildren: Victoriano, Lorenzo and Lucian; and siblings: Ruth Kraemer of Belle Plaine; Shirley (Patrick) Rishor of KY; and George (Sandy) Thelen of Park Rapids.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia; sons, John and David; his parents, George and Clara; and his infant sister, Doris Rose.

Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 16, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Two Inlets, MN, with luncheon to follow.

Memorials can be made to the Salvation Army or to the American Red Cross.