David S. "Dave" Thelen

David S. Thelen, 86, of Lakeside Park, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at his residence.

Dave was born on August 9, 1939, in New York, alongside his twin brother, William, to William and Ann Thelen. He was a 1956 graduate of Covington Catholic High School and went on to serve his country proudly as a veteran of the United States Air Force.

Following his military service, Dave earned his degree from Villa Madonna College, where he met the love of his life, Joan. They were married in 1963 and shared a lifetime of devotion to one another until her passing 4 months ago. Dave later obtained his MBA from Xavier University, laying the foundation for a distinguished career in public service.

Dave served with the U.S. Public Health Service, later holding the position of Administrative Officer with the National Air Pollution Control Administration. He retired in 1990 after many years of dedicated service to public health.

A man of deep faith, Dave was a longtime parishioner of St. Pius X Catholic Church and found great joy in attending daily Mass. Throughout his life, he embraced an active lifestyle, enjoying golf and swimming.

Dave volunteered for the American Cancer Society, St. Charles Care Center, St. Pius X Church, and St. Xavier Church in Cincinnati.

Above all, Dave loved his family; he took great pride in his children and grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Joan Thelen; parents, William and Ann Thelen; twin brother, William Thelen and sister, Mary Ann Perraut.

Dave is survived by his sons: Michael (Terri) Thelen, Chris Thelen and Patrick (Amy) Thelen; grandchildren: Malory Thelen, Brennen Thelen and Bailey Thelen; great-grandchildren, Ryker and Aspen Thelen; in-laws, Susan (Robert) Wiebe and Douglas (Barb) Droege; nephews and niece: Rob Thelen, Willy Thelen, Tony Perraut, Kevin Perraut, Mark Perraut, Lawrence Droege, Rob Wiebe and Jennifer Henry.

A visitation will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 4:00 PM until Mass of Christian Burial at 6:00 PM, at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 348 Dudley Rd., Edgewood, KY 41017. Burial will be held on Monday, January 12, 2026, 10:00 AM, at Mother of God Cemetery, in Latonia, KY.

Memorials are suggested to the Passionist Nuns, 1152, Donaldson Highway, Erlanger, KY 41018 or to St. Pius X Catholic Church, 348 Dudley Rd., Edgewood, KY 41017.

Online condolences can be made at www.linnemannfuneralhomes.com