Irene Saloma Theis

Irene S. Theis, age 89, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Born in Albertville, Minnesota, to Marcus and Clara (Becker) Kolles, Irene was raised on the family farm alongside her four siblings, where she learned the values of faith, family, and hard work. From an early age, she developed a love for music. She shared her talents of playing piano and accordion with family, friends, and by playing in a small band named Two Guys and a Gal, which performed at local Senior Care Centers.

She married the love of her life, Alphonse Theis, on October 27, 1956, and together they established their first home in Inver Grove Heights, where they began raising their family. In 1972, Irene and Al purchased a hobby farm in Denmark Township, which became their cherished home for the next 44 years.

Irene took pride in being a devoted homemaker and found joy in tending to her large garden—canning, cooking, and sharing what she grew with family, friends, and neighbors. When her children were older, she worked seasonally at a local apple orchard and enjoyed staying active and connected in the community. She and Al shared many memorable fall trips to Branson, Missouri, especially enjoying performances by Daniel O’Donnell.

A woman of deep faith, Irene was an active member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, where she volunteered for many years—working on the funeral luncheon committee, singing in the funeral choir, and helping wherever she was needed. She loved hosting family and friends for evenings of cards, conversation, and desserts. Irene was known for her spicy personality, dry sense of humor, and warm hospitality. She also enjoyed selling Avon, Stanley products, and Princess House Crystal, seeing it as a way to visit with others and contribute to the household. (And if anyone needs Princess House Crystal, contact Debbie!)

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Alphonse; parents, Marcus and Clara; and brother, Sylvester Kolles.

Irene is survived by her five children, Lucinda Findlay, David Theis (Marie), Deborah Theis (Steve Jones), Karen Knoll (Chip), and Barbara Cobenais (Joseph Fuchs); numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sisters, Sister Anita Kolles and Kathleen Knapp; brother, Gordon Kolles; and many other relatives and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St., Hastings, MN 55033, with visitation from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM prior to the service. Burial will take place following Mass at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Cemetery in Hastings, with a reception to follow back at the funeral home.

Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel is handling the arrangements.