James W. Thelen

1930-2016 A devoted husband, loving father, and perpetual kid at heart (as evidenced by his love of sweets), Jim went to be with the Lord on 10/17. He was born in Syracuse, NY, lived in East Syracuse where he was a communicant of St. Matthews Church and a volunteer firefighter. He later moved to Bridgeport, NY and retired in Cocoa Beach, FL. He and his wife Betty just celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. He raised 9 children, and took all of his jobs, including being a great dad, very seriously. He worked as an Ironworker (Local 60) for 40 years. He received The Outstanding Ironworker Award upon his retirement for his work in the field, as well as teaching ironworker and plumber apprentices. He was also a member of the union's executive board for 20 years. His work accomplishments equaled his fathering accomplishments. Jim was known for his attention to detail, and excellence in all he did. After retirement, Jim enjoyed traveling in the US and abroad. He left a superb legacy that his children and grandchildren hope to emulate. He is pre-deceased by his parents, Carl and Kathryn Thelen, brother Peter, daughter Karen Merrill, and grandchildren Kari Hensel, Daniel Thelen, and Robin Thelen. He is survived by his wife, Betty, 8 children, 16 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. There will be a funeral mass followed by a reception at Church of Our Saviour in Cocoa Beach on Friday, 10/28, 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers the family has asked that contributions be made to The Special Need Trust fbo Leah A. Conlan dated 10/5/99 in c/o Holly Wiesnet, 203 Heron Ct., St Mary's, GA, 31558. You may sign Jim's guestbook at www.beckman-williamson.com. Mass Of Christian Burial OCT 28. 11:00 AM Church of Our Saviour 5301 N. Atlantic Avenue Cocoa Beach, FL, US