Marie Seraphine Thelen

     Marie Seraphine Thelen, brought into this world on May 14, 1931, was the eldest daughter of Aloysius and Louise Platte. Growing up on her family’s mint farm, Marie often reminisced about the long summer days working with her parents and siblings—a time that taught her both the value of hard work and the joy of family. She enjoyed her walks to and from the red brick building that housed St. Joseph elementary school in St. John’s and later she attended St. Mary's High School in Westphalia.
      After graduating from high school, Marie began working in downtown Lansing; all while being courted by Alphonse Thelen. The two were married on June 14, 1951, at St. Mary’s Church, and soon settled on their own farm. With a small flock of chickens and two cows, Marie embraced farm life with dedication and grace. She balanced the daily demands of farming with 4-H activities, the yearly canning of fruits and vegetables, and the raising of a family. She was her children’s biggest cheerleader, attending their sporting events, encouraging their pursuits, and celebrating their milestones.
     Faith was central to Marie’s life. A devoted member of the Catholic Church, she gave generously of her time working with Confraternity of Christian Mothers, National Council of Catholic Women and substitute teaching at Most Holy Trinity School.
     Marie had a quick wit and a warm heart. When one of her grandchildren once asked, “Do you remember me?” she replied with a smile, “I’d remember you better if you came around more often.” It was a lighthearted reminder of her straightforward honesty and her belief in the importance of being present in the lives of those we love. 
     She poured her energy and affection into her family, from baptisms and birthdays to graduations and weddings. Marie often marked these occasions with her own hands—baking wedding cakes for her children’s special days and preparing favorite treats for birthdays. She loved her German polka music and enjoyed spending winters in Florida, where the sunshine offered a welcome escape from Michigan’s long, gray winters. Marie’s life was defined by family, faith, hard work, and joy—filled with music, laughter, and an unwavering love for those closest to her. 
     Marie is survived by her children: Brian (Mary Ann) Thelen of Ann Arbor, MI, Daniel (Kathy) Thelen of Clarkston, MI, Kevin (Lori) Thelen of Columbus, OH, Darryl (Dinean) Thelen of Madison, WI, Lori (Chris) Conner of Fowler, MI, and Andrew (Kerry) Thelen of Manhattan Beach, CA; son-in-law Ralph (Judy) Wight of Portland, MI; grandchildren Rev. Fr. Mark, Rachel, Bethany, John, Sr. Mary Andre, Judy, Jennifer, Joshua, Zachary, Hannah, Adam, Emily, Michelle, Thomas, Kurtis, Marcus, Isaac, Oakley, Tyler, Holly, Meghan, Nickolai, Camden, Elle, and Hudson; 29 great-grandchildren; Sisters: Therese Perrien, Mary Catherine Platte and brother Joseph (Mary) Platte. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband; sisters: Grace Simon and Sharon Becker; brothers: Gerald and Duane; daughter Judy; and sons: Joseph and Mark. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 A.M., Monday, August 18, 2025, at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Fowler with Rev. Fr. Mark Thelen presiding concelebrant. Burial will take place at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 2-8 p.m. on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at the Smith Family Funeral Homes – George Chapel, 11112 W. Ionia St., Fowler, with the family receiving visitors from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M., with a Rosary being prayed at 7:00 P.M.
      In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Most Holy Trinity Educational Trust Fund. Online condolences may be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes - Goerge Chapel, Fowler, Michigan.