Neil J. Thelen

Neil Joseph Thelen, 92 years old, of Lake Station, MI, died Monday, May 4, 2026 at his home. He was born in Lansing on November 19, 1933 to Roman and Helen Thelen. Neil attended Saint Mary’s Catholic School before joining the United States Air Force. After serving his country, Neil returned home to work for AT&T and married the love of his life, Frances (Miles), in 1957. After 30 years of employment with AT&T, Neil and Frances retired and moved to their house on Crooked Lake at Lake Station, MI. Neil served his community in several ways. He was active in the Knights of Columbus, serving as a Grand Knight for a period of time. Neil was also quite active supporting his sons and others through Boy Scouts as an assistant Scoutmaster. Neil also sang in the church choir with his wife Frances, up until recently. He and his wife Frances enjoyed playing Bingo and Euchre each week, while socializing with friends. Neil was also a member of the Lake Station DAV; together he and Frances had wintered at Southern Charms in Zephyrhills, FL for 20 years. Neil was preceded in death by his parents and brothers and sister. Roman Thelen, Helen Thelen, Shirley (Thelen) Pardee, Gerald Thelen, Eldon Thelen, Ronald Thelen, Dennis Thelen and Keith Thelen and is survived by his wife Frances Arlene (Miles) Thelen; children Brian (Darlene) Thelen, Theresa (John) Winterstein, Patrick (Mary) Thelen, Tina (Bernie) Gehrke, Kathy (Jeff) Bell, and Tim (Kelly) Thelen; 16 grandchildren, Troy, Andrea, Erica, Jessica, Mike, Matt, Mark, Julie, Christine, Jasara, Darcy, Brendan, Britnie, Tim, Samantha and Jordan, as well as 20 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by a grandson Carrington. Visitation and services will take place on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at the Our Lady of Hope Parish in Clare. Visitation will take place from 10 A.M. until the time of Mass at 11 A.M. with Monsignor Francis Koper officiating. Military Honors and a luncheon at the Church will follow. Memorial Contributions are suggested to McLaren Hospice or the DAV. Arrangements were handled by the Clare Chapel of Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Home. On-line condolences may be left at www.stephenson-wyman.com

Neil J. Thelen

November 19, 1933 - May 4, 2026