Ronald A. Thelen

Ron graduated from Fowler High School, class of 1962. After graduation, he moved to Laramie, Wyoming, and completed his apprenticeship as a carpenter. He also met the love of his life, Coralee Holden. They married on January 30th, 1965, and their son, Carl, was born. In 1967, they returned to Michigan to be closer to his family, and it was there that their second son, Rick, and daughter, Rebecca, were born.

Ron worked as a carpenter in the Physical Plant at Michigan State University. He retired after 29 years. He enjoyed working at MSU and was a lifetime Spartan fan. He was a wonderful father, husband, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His family always came first. Ron loved life and always saw the best in everyone. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting and spending time with his friends, Ed, Lyle and Charlie. He also enjoyed traveling and spending his winters with his wife at their home in Bullhead City, Arizona.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, and Sadie Funk. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife of 58 years, Coralee (Holden) Thelen, sons, Carl (Beth), Rick (Nancy), and daughter, Rebecca (Victor). He is survived by his grandchildren, Shelby (Kyle) Schittenhelm, Sarah (Alex) Piette, Dean Thelen, and Jacob Thelen; great-grandchildren, Max and Lily Schittenhelm; brothers, Larry, Daniel (Carol), Roger (Diane), Wayne (Elaine); sisters, Diane (David) Hall, Susan (Dan) Bauer; sister-in-law, Bonnie Gay Armstrong.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 8pm, with the rosary at 7pm, on January 23rd, at the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, 205 East Middle Street, Williamston, MI. 48895. Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11am on January 24th at St. Martha Catholic Church, 1100 W. Grand River Avenue, Okemos, MI 48864, with visitation one hour prior.