Alvin "Al" Thelin

1925 - 2021

Alvin "Al" Thelin

08/25/1925 -

11/02/2021

After a long life of service to his nation and local community, Alvin "Al" Thelin passed away peacefully at the age of 96 on November 2, 2021 in Medford, Oregon.

Thelin was born in Ocheyedan, Iowa to Harry and Alma (Floan) Thelin. He spent his youth there, working on the farm and learning the importance of a strong work ethic.

He went on to serve his country in the United States Marines during World War II as a high-speed radio operator, where he witnessed atomic bomb testing (Operation Crossroads) at the Bikini Atoll from the deck of the flagship, the USS Mount McKinley.

After his tour of duty, Thelin moved to Tillamook, Oregon, where he became a banker for US Bank, working his way up from Bookeeper in Tillamook to Senior Vice President in Medford. It was in Tillamook where he met his wife Virginia Hererra, a bank secretary, who would become his wife of 73 years.

Thelin's bank career began in Tillamook, then to Coquille, Medford, Klamath Falls, then back to Medford where he remained. Thelin believed in serving his community by serving on local boards and clubs, the SOREDI non-profit, and including the Providence Foundation Board and Finance Committees, the SOSC Board of Regents and president of the Rogue Valley Country Club where he oversaw the construction of the current clubhouse. He was a well-known staple of the Medford community, as evidenced by his being ecognized as a First Citizen of Jackson County in 1991 by the Chamber of Commerce as well as earning Boss of the Year awards multiple times.

A renaissance man, Thelin deeply enjoyed many hobbies, including golf, carpentry, gardening, and watching college and professional sports. He and Virginia also traveled extensively, to every continent except Africa and Antarctica. Thelin was also a man of faith, being raised by devout Lutheran parents. He continued the practice of his faith throughout his life and served in many capacities for the church.

He and Virginia spent his later years at the Rogue Valley Manor, where he and Virginia made many friends, including the staff to who he and Virginia are grateful for the great care they have received.

He is survived by his wife Virginia, four daughters, seven grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren, all of whom greatly admired and respected him.

A service will be held at a later date. Donations can be made to a charity of your choice in lieu of flowers.