Laura lorene Theisen Obituary – May 20, 2026
Death Announcement
With deep sorrow and heartfelt remembrance, the family of Laura Lorene Theisen announces her peaceful passing on May 20, 2026, at the age of 81. Laura passed away surrounded by the love of her family at her home in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, after a life devoted to faith, family, compassion, and service to others.
Laura Lorene Theisen was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, and dear friend whose kindness and gentle spirit touched countless lives throughout her community. Known for her warmth, patience, and unwavering devotion to those she loved, Laura leaves behind a legacy of grace and generosity that will continue to inspire family and friends for generations to come.
Her passing has left a profound void in the hearts of loved ones, neighbors, church members, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Yet amid the sorrow, her family also celebrates a beautiful and meaningful life filled with love, wisdom, and cherished memories.
Laura believed deeply in the importance of family, faith, and helping others. Her caring nature and compassionate heart made her a comforting presence during both joyful and difficult times.
Life & Career
Laura Lorene Theisen was born on April 8, 1945, in Brookings, South Dakota, to Harold and Mildred Jensen. Raised in a close-knit farming community, Laura learned the values of hard work, humility, kindness, and perseverance from an early age.
As a child, Laura enjoyed reading, singing in church choir, helping her mother bake for family gatherings, and spending time outdoors with siblings and friends. Her gentle personality and thoughtful nature were evident from a young age and remained defining qualities throughout her life.
Laura graduated from Brookings High School in 1963 before attending Northern State University, where she studied education. She later became an elementary school teacher, dedicating more than thirty years of her life to helping children learn and grow.
Students, parents, and coworkers admired Laura for her patience, encouragement, and nurturing spirit. She believed every child deserved kindness, support, and the opportunity to succeed. Her classroom became a place where students felt safe, valued, and inspired to do their best.
Outside of her professional life, Laura’s greatest joy came from her family. She loved hosting Sunday dinners, decorating for holidays, gardening in the spring, and creating family traditions that brought loved ones together year after year.
Laura also enjoyed quilting, baking, reading devotionals, and listening to classical and gospel music. She appreciated life’s quiet moments and believed strongly in finding joy in simple blessings.
A devoted member of her church, Laura volunteered for food drives, women’s ministry groups, children’s programs, and community outreach efforts throughout the years. She quietly helped families in need and often offered support without expecting anything in return.
In 1966, Laura married Richard Theisen, beginning a loving marriage built on faith, loyalty, and mutual respect. Together they shared nearly sixty years of cherished memories filled with laughter, family milestones, and unwavering support for one another.
Friends and loved ones remember Laura as someone who always listened with compassion and offered thoughtful encouragement. Her wisdom, grace, and caring heart made a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Family Members
Laura Lorene Theisen is survived by her devoted husband, Richard Theisen; her loving children, Deborah Nelson and husband Michael Nelson, Thomas Theisen and wife Rebecca Theisen, and Jennifer Carlson and husband David Carlson.
She was also a proud grandmother to Emma, Caleb, Olivia, Nathan, Claire, and Benjamin, all of whom brought tremendous joy and purpose into her life. Laura treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren, whether baking cookies together, attending school events, or sharing family stories and traditions.
She is additionally survived by her sister, Carol Jensen Miller, along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, church friends, former students, and lifelong companions who will forever cherish her memory.
Laura was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Mildred Jensen.
To her family, Laura was the heart of the home and the source of unconditional love, wisdom, and support that guided them throughout life’s journey.
Funeral Details
A celebration of life service honoring Laura Lorene Theisen will be held on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Family and friends are invited to attend visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m. prior to the service.
Burial will follow at Peaceful Meadows Memorial Cemetery.
The family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to local educational programs, church outreach ministries, or community food assistance organizations in Laura’s memory, reflecting her lifelong dedication to helping others.
Friends, neighbors, former students, and loved ones are encouraged to attend and celebrate the remarkable life and lasting legacy of Laura Lorene Theisen.
