Forrest Thein

FORREST "FORRIE" THEIN

Garnavillo

Forrest "Forrie" Frederick Thein, 92, of Garnavillo, Iowa, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones on Monday, Jan. 29, 2018. A funeral service will be held Saturday, Feb. 3, 2018, at 10 a.m. at the Garnavillo Catholic Church.

Forrie was born in Garnavillo, Iowa, to Arthur and Irene Thein on May 15, 1925. During high school, Forrie enjoyed playing baseball. He was an all-state pitcher and was invited to try out for the Philadelphia Athletics. Unfortunately, he was unable to complete the tryout after sustaining a career-ending shoulder injury. At that point Forrie decided to enlist in the Marine Corps and serve his country in World War II. On Sept. 23, 1945, Forrie married the love of his life, Janell (Mueller) Thein. They had one son, Jim, in 1948.

Forrie was very active in his community of Garnavillo. He drove a school bus for many years, which produced many fond memories for him. He was a longtime member of the American Legion as well as an active parishioner at the Garnavillo Catholic Church. Forrie was an avid golfer and would spend many nights and weekends perfecting his game. Forrie also was a very gifted woodsmith. He loved to tinker around in his shed, making several woodworking artifacts that he would give away or sell at shows. He also loved to snowmobile and play cards with his friends.

Forrie is survived by two brothers, Leonard (Shirley) and Richard Thein, Garnavillo; two granddaughters, Jennifer (Gary) Walter, West Des Moines, and Jamie Thein, North Liberty; along with five great-grandchildren, Madison Walter 22, Taelor Morman-Thein, 21, Mason Walter, 17, Mary Walter, 16, and Averi Thein-Rice, 7.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Irene (Tuecke) Thein; his wife, Janell (Mueller) Thein; his son, Jim Thein; and his brother, Melvin Thein. The family also would like to give a special thank you to Julie and Paul Richards, who were also very special to Forrie and helped him out immensely over the years.