Betty Thielen obit

Betty Thielen of Blair passed away Nov. 8, 2026. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, November 13 at 10:30 AM at St. Francis Borgia Catholic Church in Blair. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service, beginning at 9:30 AM at the church. Burial will follow in the Holy Cross Cemetery immediately following services. A luncheon will follow at St. Francis Borgia Catholic Church.

Betty was born Aug. 15, 1932, to Pressley and Gladys Crise in Altoona, Iowa. Betty grew up with two older brothers and one younger brother. She attended and graduated from East High in Des Moines, Iowa. She married Donald Thielen on April 8, 1953, in Des Moines. The couple made their home in South St. Paul, Minn., raising four children before the family moved to Blair in 1972.

Betty was active in the Blair American Legion for many years, following her husband passing. She was also active at the St. Francis Borgia Catholic Church helping with luncheons and other activities. Betty made many lifelong friends during her time working with Blair High School in the cafeteria. Betty was an avid gardener and took immense pride in her lawn and garden. She enjoyed her crochet club, making and strengthening many bonds with friends. Betty was a dedicated mother and enjoyed helping whenever and however she could. She was very proud to be a grandmother and played a very active role in her grandchildren’s lives. Betty was compassionate and giving and will be remembered fondly as a joy to be around. She will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

She is survived by children: James (Susan) of Minneapolis, Connie (Justin) Wright of Waverly and Kris Larsen of Herman; sister-in-law Marian Crise of Des Moines; grandchildren: Trevor Wright, Dawn Thielen (Josh Colberg), Bree (Clayton) Preble, Mikah (Craigan) Metcalf, Evan (Sydney) Thielen; great-grandchildren: Aria Prebel, Charlotte, Palmer and Harper Thielen and Ryder Colberg; as well as many extended family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband Donald, son Larry, stillborn daughter, son-in-law Brian Larsen, her parents, brothers: Jack, Art and Jerry, as well as two infant siblings.

Memorials may be directed to the family for later designation.

Services provided by Campbell Aman Funeral Home, Blair. www.campbellaman.com