Bryan Keith Thygeson, 61, of Mesa, AZ (formerly of Dilworth, MN), passed away in the arms of his loved ones on September 16, 2024. He was born in Karlstad, MN to DuWayn and Wenda (Czeh) Thygeson on July 22, 1963. He spent his very happy formative and high school years in Middle River, MN, where he also gained a love for cooking from his mother. He graduated from Middle River High School in 1981, and completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics Education from Mayville State University in 1985. He continued his education, completing both his Master’s degree and Sixth Year Certificate through Minnesota State University Mankato. He completed his Superintendent licensure requirements through Minnesota State University, Moorhead. He was married to Kathy Peterson on June 16, 1990 at Dilworth Lutheran Church, in her hometown of Dilworth, MN. They began their married lives together while living in Red Lake Falls, MN.
Bryan worked for 37 years in the field of education as a High School Math Teacher (Hawley, MN, Red Lake Falls, MN, Sand Point, AK, Thief River Falls, MN and Hallock, MN), Activities Director (Red Lake Falls, MN and Newfolden, MN), Business Manager and Head Football Coach (Red Lake Falls, MN), High School Principal at Marshall County Central (Newfolden, MN), and the last 15 years of his career was as a Superintendent of Schools (Warren, MN and Dilworth, MN). Following his retirement in 2021, the remaining three years of his life were spent in Mesa, AZ, enjoying the sunshine and breathing a little easier.
He is survived by his wife, Kathy, of 34 years, a daughter, Ashton Thygeson, and also Emily Vogel, who was like a daughter ( all of Mesa, AZ), sister-in-law Roxanne Thygeson, of Wasilla, AK, brothers Mike, Bruce (Kelly), and Monty (Jan) all of Thief River Falls, MN, father and mother in-law Ted and Marilyn Peterson of Mesa, AZ, brother-in-law and sister-in-law David and Michelle (Peterson) Berry of Cape Coral, FL, and many very beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents Hollis and Ida Thygeson and Walter and Linnea Czeh, his father DuWayn, mother Wenda, older brother Mark, sister-in-law Bonnie Aaseby, aunts and uncles Dean and Sharon DeOgny, Clayton Blom, Gayl Blom, Harold Anderson, Bette Holmgren, and beloved dogs Yukon, Chino, and Lucky.
Bryan was not a simple man, thus, there are many words that can be used to describe him. He was loving, brave, smart, witty, confident, and was accurately described as “blunt” by some (he would second that statement). Above all of these qualities, he was the embodiment of strength. In 1998, Bryan began experiencing health issues. After over a decade, he was finally diagnosed by the Mayo Clinic in 2009 with Alpha 1 Antitrypsin Deficiency of the lungs, a genetic disorder. Over 26 years, his overall health situation grew much more complex, which resulted in much time spent with medical specialists and hospital stays. Throughout all of this he rarely complained, and fought like a warrior when it came to battling his health issues. He shocked many doctors over the years with his determination, tenacity, and stubbornness to fight his diagnoses.
Bryan had many passions, and made many memories with family and friends. He was a lifelong supporter of the Minnesota Vikings and the Minnesota Twins. He enjoyed playing in leagues such as Bowling, Golf and Softball. His preferred way to spend the weekends was preparing meals and Sunday Brunch, watching new/rewatching favorite movies and TV shows, and spending time with his family. When he wasn’t with his family or friends, he focused on his work. He was a strong leader and always prioritized what would benefit students the most.
Even though he is no longer here with us physically, his legacy of strength, leadership, and love will live with us forever. HE was an admirable man; and one who will be dearly missed.
A memorial service for Bryan will be held Friday, October 4, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park and Funeral Home, 6747 E. Broadway Rd., Mesa, AZ 85206.
