Lura Thelen

Lura Evelyn Thelen died on September 2, 2019, in an atmosphere of peace and prayer, surrounded by her loving family. Her lifelong love of Jesus and the Blessed Virgin were manifested in her 93 years of unconditional, unwavering love and devotion to family, friends, extended family and anyone she met. Lura was born on October 27, 1925 at home in Red lodge, MT, to Daniel and Ellen (Flynn) Nelson. She was the third of seven children. She spent many years living in Billings, MT with a short time in Forsyth, MT before returning to live her final years in Billings. She met her best friend, kindred spirit and true love, Lorin Thelen and they were married on June 16, 1949; they shared 51 beautiful, devoted and amazing years together. They inspired and educated with their exemplary commitment and love for each other and their faith-centered relationship. This union produced eight children in 12 years, 25 grandchildren and 44 great-children, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Lura's life was spent in selfless and untiring service and dedication to her family. Her devotion to God and country was demonstrated by her choosing to be part of the Army Nurse Corps while training to be a Registered Nurse. Lura loved spending time with her church, bible studies and prayer meetings. She also delighted in being with all her family. In addition, playing cards was one of Lura's great passions to share with her friends and loved ones. She was preceded in death by her dear parents; cherished husband, Lorin; treasured siblings Jack Nelson, Lawrence Nelson, Anita (Nelson) Wilson and David Nelson. She is survived by siblings, Jim Nelson and Ellen Carlson; children and their spouses, Peggy (Mike) Verville, Anita (Gary) Skinner, Sue (Mark) Stearns, Becky (Ray) Ballew, Pete (Becky) Thelen, Liz (Dana) Nile, Lorin Thelen and Sam (Elaine) Thelen. She loved and is loved by her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cherished friends. “Mom was the ultimate teacher of Jesus, faith, love, laughter and living life to the fullest!! Heaven has been blessed, but our hearts are broken and you, Lura, will be forever missed!!” Lura's family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at Aspen Meadows, St. Vincent Healthcare that provided such professional yet loving and gentle care, especially Dr. Dietrich, PA Miller, RN Cameo, and RN Burch. The family also wishes to express the exceptional care given by the Stillwater Hospice caring RN's Jody, Melissa and staff. A vigil service will be held at 7pm on Thursday, September 5, at Dahl Funeral Chapel. The memorial mass will be held at 11am on Friday, September 6, at St. Pius X Catholic Church and the rite of committal will be in Calvary Cemetery. If you wish to honor Lura in some way, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, visit the sick and, most especially, take time to love and care for someone in need.