Carl John Thedens

Carl Thedens age 81, of Sleepy Eye, died on November 10, 2022, at his home in rural Sleepy Eye.

Carl John Thedens, the son of William and Lillian (Roiger) Thedens, was born on June 11, 1941, in New Ulm, MN and grew up there as well. Carl met the love of his life, Mary Ann Salisbury, while on a double date at the drive in movie theater. On October 20, 1962, they were united in marriage at Holy Trinity Cathedral in New Ulm and were blessed with four children.

Early on, Carl decided to serve his country by joining the United States Army and later the National Guard and Army Reserves. He served in Desert Storm and after dedicating 20 years of his life to the Army Reserves, Carl retired from military service. In line with service to his country, community service was important to Carl and he was a member of the New Ulm Battery, the DAV (Disabled American Veterans), the Servicemen's Club, and the New Ulm American Legion. In addition, he was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church.

To say Carl loved to work would be an understatement given his 30 years of dedicated employment to 3M. He thoroughly enjoyed working, helping others out, and keeping busy. He had the best time helping his sons with demolition derbies. He also had the best time giving his grandkids rides on his beloved horse Taco. Carl took to heart the phrase "one man's trash is another man's treasure" and fondly collected all kinds of treasures. In later years, he generously shared his favorite television show "Gunsmoke" with his family, with each episode being watched at least 20 times. Carl leaves a legacy of a strong work ethic, love of family, and service to others.

Carl is survived by his wife of 60 years, Mary Ann Thedens; foster mother, Viola Reinhart; children, Sheri Mickelson, Todd (Debbie) Thedens, and Melanie (Francisco) Moreno; 12 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; siblings, Carol (John) Simmons, Curt (Diane) Thedens, Connie (Mike) Cochran, Cindy (Dennis) Gustafson, and Bonnie Mellen; foster sisters, Carol (Glen) Schmid, Lois (Larry) Siem, Colleen (Darcy) Baumann, and Janet (Bob) Brunner; and daughter-in-law, Brenda Thedens.

Preceding Carl in death were his parents, William and Lillian Thedens; foster father, Melvin "Bitsy" Reinhart; son, Aaron Thedens; and brothers, Ralph Thedens and Charles Thedens.