Theodore "Ted" Heinrich Tholen passed away on the morning of April 27, 2023, on his own terms, in the last house-that he built, and with his constant canine companion, Sassy, by his side.
Ted was born on September 18, 1938, to Martin and Sibilla Tholen in Sittard, Holland. He had one younger brother, Harry Tholen. When Ted was 16, he immigrated by ship with his parents and brother to the United States. His parents sacrificed so much for greater opportunities for their family, and they made a new home for their boys here.
His family traveled across the country to be close to family in Cut Bank, MT. Shortly after that, they moved to Great Falls and made it their permanent home.
Ted had two children with his first wife Penny Grimes. His son, Martin "Marty" Tholen was
born in 1960, and Tammy (Tholen) Boak was born soon after in 1961.
In the early 70s, Ted met his true match in Rosie Buckman. The two of them lived happily together for many years. She was a steady, positive force in Ted's life. Ted became a part of her family during these years, as she did a part of his.
Ted worked hard his entire life. After working for family member John Tholen in Cut Bank, he worked in numerous vocations. He was in sales for many years. Next, he managed the buildings 600 Central Plaza and College Park. He did contracting work and renovated and built multiple homes. At these jobs, Ted excelled and developed many relationships that lasted his lifetime.
Especially in his later years, these friends as well as his neighbors were a tremendous support to him.
If you knew Ted, you knew he had a unique, dry sense of humor, and he loved to mess around with people. Despite his sometimes gruff exterior, he had a big heart and enjoyed helping others.
Ted was preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Sibilla Tholen; wife, Rosie Buckman; and brother, Harry Tholen. He is survived by his son, Marty Tholen; daughter-in-law, Liz Tholen; daughter, Tammy Boak; and his grandson, Kyle Hotchkiss who was a tremendous source of pride for Ted.
His service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at the Ursuline Centre (2300 Central Ave) on Thursday, May 11, 2023, with a luncheon to follow and inurement at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Ursuline Centre. Ted will be greatly missed by those who loved him.
