Obituary of Thelma Larsen

Thelma Marie Larsen, 96, died on August 19, 2014, at Rolling Hills Manor, Zion, IL. Thelma was born May 10, 1918, in Waukegan, IL. She was raised on a farm in Gurnee, IL, attended a one-room grade school and graduated from Warren Township High School. Thelma married her late husband, Albert Larsen, on August 20, 1936. Thelma and Albert resided in Waukegan prior to retiring to Conover, WI. She was a member of Pioneer Lake Lutheran Church, confirmed member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church, and special visitor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Thelma sang in the Church Choir and was a member of WELCA and Women's Benefit Association. Family life was very important to Thelma and her long life was enhanced by the love and support of so many people. She was a very loving and caring person to all. Survivors include her children, Margaret (Jack) Bregger, Mary Wakelyn, and June Potter; grandchildren, Linda (Clay) Erickson, Sandra (Todd) Singiser, Nanette (Bob) Niday, Edward Wakelyn, Amy (Billy) Kinard, Gene Groat and Lance Groat. Also surviving are 13 greatgrandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren; 5 step-great-grandchildren; 4 step-great-greatgrandchildren; sister, Martha DeTogne; and many nieces and nephews. Thelma was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Albert; parents, Victor and Marie Lahti; aunt, Emilia Makela; brothers, Wayne, Wilbert, and Allen Lahti; sisters, Elma Lahti and Elna MacMullan; and sons-in-law, William Wakelyn and Clifford Latz. Visitation will be September 21, 2014 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 824 N. Lewis, Waukegan, with a Memorial Service at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pioneer Lake Lutheran Church, Conover, WI; St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Waukegan, IL; St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Waukegan, IL or American Heart Association. Special thanks to Dr. Mila Kyncl and the staff at Rolling Hills Manor.