Kenneth August Tholen, 87, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 2, 2020 at the Libby Care Center. He was born July 9, 1933 at home in Angora, Minnesota to Hugo and Emily Tholen. The family lived for 5 years at Cook, Minn. and at age 15 they moved to Libby.
In March of 1952, Kenny enlisted in the US Air Force. He did his training at Lackland, Texas, and went to Rome, NY and was stationed in England from 1954-1956. He went back to New York and was honorably discharged from the Air Force. Kenny hitchhiked back to Libby. He raised some hell in Libby, so his Pa told him to straighten up. He went to Alaska in 1965. He worked at Alaska Orient Van Service until he retired in 1983. He then moved back to Libby.
Kenny was a proud veteran! He was a 58 year member of The America Legion. He loved black licorice, and coffee and fritters from Rosauers. Think of Kenny when you watch the movie Shane, listen to Neil Diamond or Johnny Cash, and of course the Steelers!!!
Survivors include his brother Richard Tholen; nieces Sandra, Paula, Sharon, Ardell; nephews Dan, Greg, Michael, Steve, and Duane; his dear friends Bobbi, Audrey, Kathy, Tammy, Dan; lifelong friends the Moran family; Judkins family; Braley family, Mark and Jerry.
We will all miss your smile, laughter and the times you were sent to time out at the care center. Thank you to all the staff at the Libby Care Center.
Cremation has taken place. Family and friends will have a military service at a later date. Arrangements are by Schnackenberg Funeral Home. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.schnackenbergfh.com.
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