Alphonse Joseph Theis

Alphonse Joseph Theis, age 88, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Born in Buckman, Minnesota, to John Theis and Loretta Broschofsky, Al was raised on the family farm alongside his twelve siblings, learning the values of family, hard work, and dedication.

He married the love of his life, Irene, on October 27, 1956, and together they established their first home in Inver Grove Heights, where they began raising their family. In 1972, Al and Irene purchased a hobby farm in Denmark Township, which became their cherished home for the next 44 years. Alongside managing the farm, Al dedicated himself to his work in various meat-packing plants, ultimately concluding his career as the Maintenance Director at Augustana Care Center.

Al enjoyed his retirement years immensely, often reading and sharing lively stories about his childhood and his memorable times working at Armour’s in South St. Paul. Known for his generosity and resourcefulness, Al frequently used his welding skills to help friends and neighbors, always ready to lend a hand or share his expertise.

In his leisure, Al enjoyed fishing, watching sports, playing cards, and most importantly, spending quality time with his family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Loretta; his sisters, Sister Eileen Theis, Helen Hoheisel, Marie Theis, and Cecilia Meyer; and his brothers, Reinhard Theis, Donald Theis, Raymond Theis, Lawrence Theis, and Bernard Theis.

Al is survived by his loving wife, Irene Theis; children, Lucinda Findlay, David Theis (Marie), Deborah Theis (Steve Jones), Karen Knoll (Mike), and Barbara Cobenais (Joe Fuchs); numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sisters, Marian Bleichner and Judith Glafke; and brother, Roderick Theis.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2035 Fifteenth Street West, Hastings, MN 55033, with visitation from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM prior to services at the church. A reception will follow, and interment will take place at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Cemetery in Hastings.

Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel is handling the arrangements.