Published on April 28, 2025 6:22 am
Last Updated on April 28, 2025 7:06 am
Lorene was born on July 1, 1926, in Dieterich, Illinois, the eldest daughter of Louis and Clara (Miller) Mundt. She married Henry “Harry” Thoele on October 14, 1947, and together they spent sixty-four years raising their family, dancing on Saturday nights, and giving back to their community. He preceded her in death on January 6, 2012 and she joined him in eternity on April 25, 2025.
Lorene was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who most cherished time with her family. She and Harry, adopted four children—two daughters and two sons—who survive her: Margaret “Maggie” (Steve) Longsworth of Teutopolis, Keith “Harry” Thoele of Jewett, Kathryn “Kay” (Dan) Goldstein of Effingham, and Gene Thoele of Teutopolis. Lorene’s seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren were the light of her life, and she never missed an opportunity to show her love and support. She is survived by her grandchildren: Jeremy Purcell, Steph Henson, Maria (Luke) Niebrugge, Adam (Kirsten) Goldstein, Lucas (Melissa) Goldstein, and Jessica (Ben) Estes. Lorene was predeceased by her beloved grandson, Joshua Thoele. Her great-grandchildren—Eli Henson; Lanae, Julia, and Declan Niebrugge; Lainey Jansen; and Grant, Joanna, Alayna, and Wade Goldstein—were the joy of her later years. They treasure fond memories of their Memaw’s party mix and candy bucket, the warmth of her hugs, and the way her eyes lit up whenever they walked through the door. Family was the most important part of her life, and nothing brought her more happiness than spending time with her great-grandkids — watching them dance and tumble, hearing about their day at school, or simply sitting together enjoying ice cream. Their daily visits were the highlight of her days, filling her home with laughter, love, and countless cherished moments. Lorene was raised in the Lutheran church and later converted to Catholicism, spending her adult life as a faithful member of the St. Francis of Assisi congregation. She worked as a bookkeeper for Petty’s Department Store and was known for her meticulous note-keeping and keeping detailed records of her life. Lorene and Harry were active members of the Teutopolis community and were honored by CEFS for their twenty years of service delivering Meals on Wheels. She also served as president of the Ladies Sodality of St. Francis Parish and was a church volunteer. Socially, she enjoyed hosting card parties with Harry, playing cards with friends, and attending lunches at Kountry Kitchen. Lorene was an avid sports fan who eagerly supported Teutopolis High School sports, Illini basketball, and, of course, the Chicago Cubs. Lorene was a wonderful wife, mother, grandma, Memaw, sister, aunt, and friend. Her many nieces and nephews fondly remember how she always made them feel special, offering unwavering love, guidance, and a warm, welcoming heart. She was a constant source of support, always ready with a kind word, a helping hand, and a smile that made everything feel just a little brighter. Lorene lived a life rooted in love and grace, and the world is truly better for having had her in it.
Her family would like to extend special appreciation to Lorene’s guardian angels on Earth: Hank Habing, NP; Tyler Bloemer, BSN, RN; Jake Hartke, PTA; Angie Bloemer; Connie Blackwell; and
Linda Erickson.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; grandson; sisters, Verda Mae Krabbe Schottman and Irma Horn; and brother, Delbert Mundt.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 29, 2025 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Teutopolis. Burial will follow at St. Francis of Assisi Cemetery. Visitation will precede the Mass from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, April 29, 2025 in St. Clare Hall at the church. Johnson Funeral Home is overseeing arrangements. Memorials may be made in Lorene’s honor to CEFS Meals on Wheels. Online condolences may be shared at www.johnsonandsonsfh.com.