Mary Ann (Fox) Thelen

Mary Ann was born August 3, 1930 to Oscar and Cornelia Fox in Pewamo, MI.  She had fond memories of her years on the farm in Pewamo, especially her lambs named Jo-Jo and Snowball.  Her family moved to Portland when she was 12. She attended Portland High School, where she participated in marching band, and graduated in 1948.

Mary Ann married Donald H. Thelen on August 3, 1949 at St. Patrick’s church in Portland.  They were married for 58 years, until Donald’s passing in 2008. She was a devout Catholic and a dedicated member of St Patrick’s church, where she also served on the Altar Society for many years.

Mary Ann was a proud mother and homemaker for her 6 children: Pat (Louis-deceased) Koenigsknecht, Tom (Karen) Thelen, Denise (Jim) Anderton,  Mary (Don-deceased) Anderson, Joe Thelen, and John (Lisa) Thelen

Mary Ann was a beloved grandmother to 10 grandchildren. She also had a way of adopting other grands as hers grew up.  She was actually called “neighborhood grandma” by several children, including one named after her. 

Mary Ann will be remembered for her kind, loving demeanor.  One of her secrets was to always be ready to make French Toast for her “grands” whenever asked!  Her famous apple sauce and full candy jars were also a hit with all of the kids. Her welcoming words when anyone arrived were “Hi – are you hungry?”  Clearly – food was her “love language.”  Mary Ann, in return, was much loved by all.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects from 4-7 p.m. with the rosary being prayed at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, July 12, 2024 at the Lehman Funeral Homes, 210 E. Bridge Street, Portland.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Fr. Mike Alber at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 13, 2024 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Portland. Rite of Committal will follow at Portland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations should be directed to St. Patrick’s Parish in her honor. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.