Don Thoreson peacefully went home to the Lord on November 14, 2024, in Fargo, ND, at the age of 96. His life, filled with rich experiences and deep connections, was marked by commitment and a recent renewal of faith in Christ. Born on May 1, 1928, in Kenmare, ND, he was the first of three boys to Harold and Doris Thoreson. These early years made for epoch stories as Harold and Doris taught in rural North Dakota schools and raised their family in less than comfortable living conditions. Don faced early hardships, including the loss of his father at 16, which instilled a strong sense of responsibility within the entire family.
After high school, Don enrolled at Valley City State College but soon enlisted in the US Army and served in Japan. Upon returning, he re-enrolled in college and married Mary Lou Schroeder on September 10, 1949, at Salem United Methodist Church. They built a loving family together as Don started his career as a teacher and school principal. He later transitioned to business management with Eickhof Construction in Crookston, MN, where he worked for 18 years, taking on new challenges, forming lasting friendships, and establishing his family in the community. Don appreciated Otto Eickhof as a mentor and considered Jack Eickhof one of his closest friends.
In the early 1970s, Don became president of First Federal Savings and Loan, expanding the bank from a single location in Crookston to six branches across northern Minnesota. After 13 years in banking, Don and Mary Lou embraced retirement and started a new chapter in their story, enjoying life at Union Lake, traveling in a motorhome, and eventually establishing a second home in Tucson, Arizona. His leadership and dedication to community engagement were evident throughout his career. Active in several civic organizations, he also pursued hobbies such as building a boat, sailing, playing morning volleyball at the University of Minnesota-Crookston and with couples at Union Lake, and participating in the Senior Olympics. He found joy in staying busy by “putzing” and buying and selling cars. Most importantly, Don’s commitment to his family, friends, church, and community was unwavering. He selflessly cared for Mary Lou during her long battle with declining health, exemplifying love and compassion.
Don is survived by his children: Gail (Herb) Hasz, Joan Saucedo, Pam (Aleta Wegner) Thoreson, and Jay (Kelly) Thoreson, along with grandchildren Hilary (Paul), Ted (Kari), Scott, Jacob (Nicole), Joshua (Taylor), Zachary (Emily), and Nathaniel (Rachel), 12 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great granddaughter, and his brother Lowell (Audrey) Thoreson. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Mary Lou, brother Duane, and sons-in-law Mark Kierstead and j. Saucedo.
His legacy of strength, kindness, and faith will continue to inspire all who knew him.
A service in Don’s honor will be held at the Pioneer House Assisted Living chapel, 3540 South University Drive, Fargo, ND on Saturday, November 23. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am with the service to follow at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial gift to Hospice of the Red River Valley.
