Melanie T. Thorsen

Melanie T. Thorsen, née Klimek, of Evanston, died peacefully in July, 2025, in Long Grove. Devoted daughter of the late Stanley and Adeline, née Podraza, she was born and raised in Chicago. Beloved wife of the late Per O. Thorsen; dear mother of Deneen, Karin (Matthew Park), and Johannes (Evelyn Cooper) Thorsen, Kristine (Frans) Klaassen, and Lisa and Michelle (Morten Kristiansen) Thorsen; loving grandmother of 12; fond sister of Valerie (Michael) Walker and Ronald (Ceil) Klimek, and loving aunt.
Melanie fiercely loved all her family, which also included a variety of pets throughout her life. There are many fond memories of holiday celebrations across cultures with her husband and extended family. She upheld the family traditions of loving the outdoors, the seasons and lots of plants.
She was a lifelong educator, starting her career as an elementary school teacher. She was successful with several key account sales roles as well as pharmaceutical sales, before proudly obtaining her MBA in Health Care. This led her to the field of Medical Education which blended her two passions, while giving her many cherished relationships with those in the medical world.
Visitation, Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 10 a.m. until time of Mass of Christian Burial, 11 a.m., at St. Patrick Church (Main Church) of St. Brigid Catholic Parish, 15000 W. Wadsworth Rd., Wadsworth, IL 60083.
Interment, Ascension Catholic Cemetery, Libertyville.
Funeral info: 847.673.6111 or habenfuneral.com to leave a condolence message. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Melanie, please visit our Tree Store.