Karl Theodore Thoele

Karl Theodore Thoele, age 88, of Henderson, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2025, in Greenfield, MN surrounded by faith and the love of his family. Memorial service will be held at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Arlington on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Matthew Rauh officiating. Visitation will be held at the church one hour prior to the service.  Burial will be in Arlington Public Cemetery followed by a lunch at church.

Karl was born February 20, 1937, in Henderson to Eberhardt and Rose (Werner) Thoele.  He was raised on the family dairy farm, where he learned the values of hard work, honesty, and gratitude - principles he carried with him throughout his life. He attended District 58 Country School and on March 16, 1963, married the love of his life, Edith Woehler, in Glencoe, Minnesota. Together they built a home and a life on a farm in Arlington Township, raising their family with deep love, discipline, and no shortage of laughter. Karl and Edith shared 58 wonderful years of marriage until her passing.

Karl was a farmer through and through - he often said he was "born with a pitchfork in his hands." He took immense pride in working the land and caring for his animals. Farming wasn’t just his livelihood - it was his passion and his way of life. He was a true master of many trades: self-taught and highly skilled in welding, plumbing, electrical work, and machinery repair. As a young boy, he would sneak into the shop and teach himself to weld, eventually becoming the go-to fixer for area farmers who trusted his steady hands and clever mind. Even in retirement, Karl found joy in working with his hands - especially in collecting and scrapping metal. Karl was a man of steadfast faith, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to his family. His favorite saying - “Every day is a good day” - reflected the optimism and resilience he brought to each chapter of life. He lived by three guiding principles: the Lord, family, and health. He also enjoyed many simple pleasures: fishing, bowling, shooting pool, playing cards, and gathering with friends for “Catholic Hour” uptown. Known for his sharp wit, strong moral compass, and fondness for a little apple brandy, Karl left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He was immensely proud of his family and found great joy in watching them grow. He led by example - with integrity, humility, and a clear sense of what truly matters.

Karl is survived by his children: Sally Thoele, Karen (Scott) Boerboom, Donna (Donald) Carr, Daniel (Jamie) Thoele, Mary Thoele (Joseph Swenson) and Mark Thoele (Nichole Gruis).

Grandchildren: Evan, Owen, and Adam Boerboom; McKenna, Cambry, and KyWynn Carr; Morgan, Maelynn, Macey, and Maleena Thoele; Blake and Reed Swenson; Hailey and Logan Thoele. He is also survived by his dear in-laws: Charlie Woehler, Sandy Bauco, and Sandy Woehler also many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Edith Thoele; his infant son, David Thoele; and brothers and sisters-in-law, LeRoy (Verna) Thoele, and Norman (Delores) Thoele. In-laws, Dennis Woehler, Marvin Woehler,  Carol Woehler and Ken Bauco.