Earl D. Thielen

Earl D. Thielen, age 79, of Toledo, passed away peacefully Wednesday, June 24, 2009 at Hospice of Northwest Ohio, Toledo. He was born April 18, 1930 to Carl and Ellena (Brown) Thielen in Toledo. Earl worked many years in the grocery business. He was a longtime member of Hope United Methodist Church. Earl was an avid golfer and in his younger years he was a championship bowler. He loved going down to Redbird Mission in Kentucky to work on homes in depressed area of the Appalachians for people in need. Earl's passion was helping others no matter what the need was. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Lila Bovia and brothers, Reid and Dale Thielen. Earl is survived by his loving wife of almost 60 years, Ann (Hardenbrook) Thielen; children, Sharyn Nichols, of Lee's Summit, MO, James (Regina) Thielen, of Grove City, OH, Richard (Debra) Thielen, of Perrysburg and Amy (Lindsey) Whitehead, of Holland; grandchildren, Victoria (John), Catherine, Annie Rose, Mitchel, Brad, Zack, Earlyn, Azaree and AnnAleada; great-granddaughter, Kyanna and one great-grandson on the way; sister, Ruth (Barney) Petee; and brothers, Paul (Hester) and Noel (Judy) Thielen.

The family will receive guests on Sunday from 2 – 8:00 p.m. at Hope United Methodist Church, 4069 W. Sylvania Ave., Toledo. Funeral Services will begin Monday at 9:00 a.m. in the church. Officiating will be Pastor John Richards. Entombment will follow in Ottawa Hills Memorial Park. The Newcomer Funeral Home (419-473-0300) assisted the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers those wishing to make monetary donations are asked to consider the church.