George Thelen

George Michael Thelen, 87, of Park Rapids, MN passed away at home on Monday, August 17, 2026.

A gathering of friends and family will be held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 from 1:30 to 3:00PM at Anderson-TeBeest Funeral Home in Montevideo.

George was born September 6, 1938 in Savannah Township in Becker County to George and Clara (Glazmaier) Thelen. He graduated from Park Rapids High School in 1956. He served in the US Navy from 1956 until 1959 then attended Bemidji State University, graduating in 1964. He worked for Walston and Company early in his career. He married Sandy Gulbranson and they raised their family in Montevideo, MN where George owned and operated Food-n-Fuel Convenience Stores from 1971-2002. They retired to Sioux Falls, SD and have enjoyed a cabin on Boot Lake in Park Rapids for 26 years.

George missed turning 88 by 3 weeks. He was a thoughtful and generous man who enjoyed life with his family at the lake, farm and trips. He liked to grill for the family and was known for making the best turkey stuffing for Thanksgiving. He liked watching all sports, especially Bemidji State hockey. George enjoyed golfing, pheasant hunting and fishing. He was a life-long Catholic. In 1996 he received the Outstanding Alumni award from Bemidji State University. His legacy will leave a mark on all who were touched by his life.

George is survived by his wife, Sandra Thelen of Park Rapids; daughters, Michelle Thelen of Minneapolis, MN and Kelly (Randy) Chapin of Park Rapids; son-in-law, Mark Jaspersen; sisters, Ruth Kraemer of Belle Plaine, MN and Shirley Rishor of Clarksville, IN; 4 grandsons; 3 great grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, George and Clara Thelen; brother, James Thelen; sister-in-law, Patricia Thelen; sister, Baby Rose Thelen; and his daughter, Kerry Jaspersen.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, August 27, 2026 at 1:00 PM at the Cease Family Funeral Home Chapel in Park Rapids, MN. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 11 am until 1:00 PM at the funeral home.