Karl Thelen

Karl Thelen's love of music inspired me to play brass band and orchestra instruments in elementary school, Junior high school, high school and Oregon State University from 1951-1962. He was a remarkable teacher, friend, motivator and musician.

The best grandfather a granddaughter could ever ask for. I hope I am able to live such a full life as he did. I love you very much and although I did not get to see you as much as I would have liked you will forever be in our hearts and greatly missed. Love You, Crystal, Maurice Jr (great grandson) & Alina (great granddaughter).

Karl Thelen was a fine teacher, musician, conductor and friend. I owe my lifetime enjoyment of music largely to him. Mr Thelen got me started with the alto horn at Garfield Elementary School (1951) in Salem, then french horn and trombone at Parrish Junior High School. He encouraged me (1952-54) to play in the Parrish concert and marching bands, a small Parrish dance band, and even a 4-piece German band. He was a positive influence well beyond the classroom. Peace be to his memory.

I first met Karl at Parrish Jr. High School in his band class. He was helpful and patient in teaching me to learn how to play the saxophone. I later met up with Karl at a local church and was able to enjoy his singing in the choir. Karl was such a calming and polite person. My sympathy to his family.
Ed Stahl, Salem, OR

I remember him, and Mrs Thelen both. As I played with David and Louie as a child on Larson St. Very nice family.

I remember Mr. Thelan as being a very kind and patient teacher to me when I was a rowdy teenager who needed to be put in my place. Thank you Mr. Thelan! I didn't deserve you. R.I.P. Linda Copley Maddy Class of 1967

Karl Thelen was a wonderful teacher. I played clarinet in the band at Parish Jr. Hi. He was a very patient kind man. I feel blessed to have had him as a teacher.

Karl was on the staff at Waldo Junior High when I first started working there, oh so many years ago. I moved on to North and was so glad to meet up with him again at Salem Retired Educators when I retired. Karl was such a gentleman, a great musician and always interesting to visit with. I admired him so much. He lived a long, productive life and will be missed.

Virginia Gomer, Laurel, MT

Sylvia and I were friends. In summers we worked together at Kelley Farquhar. We rode bikes there but sometimes when we got off in the middle of the night or otherwise not good to ride bikes home, Mr. Thelen and my dad traded off picking us up and taking us home. He was a very nice man.