Clarence Tholen

Gordon Hubert Tholen was born on March 9, 1925, in Marshall, to Albert and Mary Tholen. After his schooling, Gordon enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He served in many locations during World War II, including participation with one of the first landing parties in Nagasaki after the atomic bomb. After his discharge, Gordon returned to the United States. He was united in marriage to Cecilia DeRider at St. Edward Catholic Church in Minneota on August 24, 1948. The couple farmed North of Marshall and Gordon also worked for the U.S. Postal service. This position led him to a job with the ASCS where he worked until 1975. From 1975 – 1985, Gordon sold farm equipment in Tracy and Westbrook. After Celilia’s death in 2000, Gordon married Shirley Hagberg in 2002. Gordon enjoyed hunting and fishing. He wintered in Florida for many years and enjoyed traveling in his motor home. He belonged to the V.F.W. and Knights of Columbus. Gordon died on Friday, May 16, 2008, at the Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Westbrook, MN. He is survived by his children Connie Tinklenberg of Henderson, NV, Colleen (Claris) Bleyenburg of Dade City, FL, Gary (Theresa) Tholen of Slayton, 9 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren and sister-in-law Bernice Tholen. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Cecilia, son Glen, son-in-law Lloyd Tinklenberg and brothers Ralph and Edward.