Philip Joseph Thielen

Philip Thielen, 88, owner of Thielen's Store in Pierz, Minnesota for over 50 years passed away Sunday, February 7, 1988 at his home. Philip was born on April 3, 1899 in Pierz, Minnesota son of the late Theodore and Emma (Van Hercke) Thielen. He married Cora Eull in Albertville, Minnesota on September 7, 1925. They were lifelong residents of Pierz.

Philip attended St. John's University where he was a member of their football squad. In the early 1920's he became the proprietor of Thielen's Store and began a life-time of involvement in the commercial and civic growth of Pierz. He was instrumental in the development of amateur baseball in Central Minnesota and the construction of a new baseball park in Pierz. He served several terms as city clerk. Later, as owner of the bowling alley and wedding reception hall, the Pierz Fun House. He added new activities for youth and adults of the community. His other activities included regular and senior bowling leagues, was a member of the Knights of Columbus and lifelong membership in St. Joseph's Catholic Church.

Philip is survived by his wife, Cora, sons, Norman of San Diego, CA; Arden (Chuck) of Pierz and Greg of Seattle, WA; daughters, Joyce Thielen of Roseville, MN; Gwen Miller of Little Falls, Stefanie Carney of Minneapolis and Beth Lammer of St. Cloud; brother, Ed of Pierz; sisters, Christine Kummet and Susan Virnig of Pierz; LaVina Halla and Helen Nevins of Florida. Twenty-five grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Lerald on August 10, 1977; brothers, Peter, Ted, William and Eugene; sisters, Ann Preimesberger and Emma Baumbauch; granddaughter, Ann Marie Miller on September 12, 1987 and grandson, Paul Michael Miller.