Lawrence Leo Tholen, 97, died peacefully in his sleep on Monday, November 23, 2020, at his home in Marshall. A private family Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Marshall, followed by burial at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. A recording of the service will be available at a later date.
Lawrence Leo Tholen was born on August 18, 1923, near Ivanhoe, to Hubert and Bertha (Goodman) Tholen. He was baptized at St. Peter and Paul in Ivanhoe, and he received his First Communion and was confirmed at St. Clotilde in Green Valley. In 1936, the family moved to a farm east of Marshall. Lawrence attended school in both Ivanhoe and Marshall, graduating from Marshall High School with honors in 1941. After graduation, he began farming with his parents and later in partnership with his brother, Andrew. Lawrence loved farming and his livestock operation.
Lawrence was united in marriage to Adeline VanLerberghe, the love of his life, on November 8, 1949. Together they raised five children. Lawrence and Adeline farmed near Wood Lake until 1961 when they purchased a farm near Tracy. In 1992, Lawrence and Adeline moved to Marshall.
Lawrence was a devoted Catholic. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and was very active in parish ministry at St. Mary’s parish in both Cottonwood and later in Tracy. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and attending their sporting and musical events. Lawrence had many fond memories of playing cards with his neighborhood 500 hundred club while farming near Tracy. After moving to Marshall, he enjoyed playing cards at the Community Center and the camaraderie of his many friends there.
Lawrence will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved him. He charmed everyone with his warmth and quick wit. Lawrence is survived by his loving wife, Adeline, of 71 years; five children: Steven (Deborah), Randy (Elaine), Mary (Chuck) Howe, Kevin (Maureen), and JoAnn (Steve Barstad); 11 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren, 3 step-great-grandchildren; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Lawrence was preceded in death by his parents, brother Andrew, and sisters Regina, Mary, and Adeline.
Memorials are preferred to the Marshall Adult Community Center, his home away from home.
Arrangements with
Horvath Funeral Service
Marshall, Minnesota
507.532.4522
www.horvathfuneralservice.com