Wilhelm Tholen

Wilhelm was born in Heisfelde, Germany on November 23, 1924, the son of Johann and Wilhelmine (Thomssen) Tholen. He was raised in Leer, Germany and served in the German Army in WWII. In 1952, Wilhelm immigrated to Valparaiso, IN with his late wife Hanni (Grohnert) Tholen.

Wilhelm worked as a machinist for many years and retired from Coco-Cola in 1989. He owned and operated Tholen Motor Service for over 50 years in Valparaiso and continued to work up until his 92nd birthday. In his younger years he enjoyed gardening, dancing at the German Dance Club, traveling back to Germany, gathering with friends, reading the newspaper, and nature. To his grandchildren he was a devoted and loving “Opa”. A fond memory of the family is the tradition of having tea at 4pm. Please consider celebrating Wilhelm’s life with a cup of tea.

He leaves his daughter, Dagmar Post; his daughter, Linda Meade; his granddaughter, Resi (Damon) Kielma; great grandchildren, Oliver and Heidi; his grandson, Justin (Kimberly) Meade; great grandchildren, Grace and Luella; his sister, Hanna Trauernicht and several extended family members. Wilhelm was preceded in death by his wife, Hanni Tholen; parents, Johann and Wilhelmine Tholen; and sister, Margarete Diekmann. No services will be held. Condolences may be offered at www.familyfuneralcareindy.com