Kenny you always brought a great smile and good conversation. You taught me how to play horseshoes. Family get togethers at your house were always a great time and good memories — your nephew Kevin.
Kenny for me you always made sure to say hello if I didn’t get to you first. That I will remember because I believe the most welcoming gesture one can do is present a smile and a welcoming hello. And you did that always Kevin and I together share our sympathy with your family and share a loss of you You are with our Lord and brightening up Heaven even more. Smiles always with love. Kevin and Mary dahl.
Kenneth William Theis
October 30, 1936 – February 22, 2026

A public visitation will be held for Kenneth William Theis from 4-7 pm on Friday, February 27, 2026, at the Daniel Funeral Home in St. Cloud, MN. Mr. Theis died on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at his home having attained the age of 89. Private burial of his urn will be in the St. Marcus Parish Cemetery at Clear Lake, MN.
Kenneth was born on October 30, 1936, the son of William and Elizabeth (Schreifels) Theis at Cold Spring, MN. On April 9, 1958, he married his wife Dorothy A. (Mayer) Theis. He was Honorably Discharged in July of 1962 after serving for six years with the Minnesota National Guard.
At the age of 13 Ken started working in the grocery business, dusting and stocking shelves at Piggly Wiggly on 6th Avenue South in St, Cloud. He worked there until the store closed in 1972. From 1973 – 1974 he left the grocery business and worked for a moving van company. He decided there had to be an easier way in life, and returned to the grocery business, working in various grocery stores in various departments working his way up the ladder till he retired from full time as a assistant manager for 20 plus years for Coborns in Clearwater, MN But continued to work part time for several more years. Ken always was a very hard worker who loved his job and loved the people. He will always be remembered for his willingness to help others, and always with a big smile.
Ken was a former member of the Foley and St. Marcus Knights of Columbus, until moving to Sartell in 2013. He was also a longtime member of the St. Marcus Ushers group.
In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing, camping, hunting, gardening and wood crafts
He is survived by his wife Dorothy of 67 years; four sons, David and Gary of St. Cloud, MN, Jeff of Clearwater, MN and Mark (Dawn) of Clear Lake; one daughter Cheryl Mason of St. Cloud, MN; 13 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild; his sister Georgianna Holthaus; sister in laws Jan Theis, Sharon Mayer; brother in law David Regouski; nieces and nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by; his son Rodney; son-in-law, Jerry Mason, in law Lawrence and Olga (Mumm) Mayer, sister Mary Ann, brother Robert and infant brother Richard, brothers-in-laws, Aldus Dahl, George Houlthouse, and Louis, Kenneth and Del Roy Mayer,
Guestbook
Dear Dorothy and family, So sorry to hear about Ken’s passing. Have so many wonderful memories of you guys as neighbors, friends & ,co-worker. We always had a good time together. Ken was a special guy. Always smiling and so friendly at Coborn’s. We will be remembering all of you in our thoughts and prayers. Love from the Millers.
With Deepest Sympathies to Dorothy and family, The Helgeson Family wishes to extend our deepest condolences at this very difficult time.
RIP Kenny ♡
Dad was a man who truly loved the outdoors — whether he was hunting, fishing, tending to his garden, or building something with his hands in the workshop. If he wasn’t outside, he was probably planning his next project or his next big catch.
Dad was also the king of pranks and full of fun. He loved to laugh, joke around, and keep everyone on their toes. Being around him meant you were guaranteed a story, a smile, or a playful trick you’d never see coming. Life was never boring with him in it.
We are heartbroken, but so incredibly grateful for the memories, lessons, and love he gave us. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, humor, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys in life.
Love you forever, Dad. ❤️
I was lucky enough to call him my Grandpa. The best thing about him was a his big hugs and always smiling when us grandkids came around. I would definitely pick him as my grandpa in every life time. I’m very grateful for all the memories I have growing up. From camping trips, walking in the woods or keeping our eye out for the woodchuck’s. I remember our times out in the garden picking veggies or picking buckets or raspberries. I love you so much Grandpa and promise to be there more for Grandma and Dad. Until we meet again Grandpa. Please watch over us now that your our guardian angel, and I hope you and Uncle Rod are having the time of your lives being reunited again.
Love your Oldest Grandchild
What a great guy. Ken was always so friendly, happy with his big smile followed by a short laugh. Have many happy memories that our family shared with him and his family. We are going to miss him.
Rest in peace my friend. No more pain, stress or worries. Much love. See you there. Donna Little
I have many memories of Kenny when we would return to MN for family vacations. He was always a fun person to be around and we always looked forward to seeing him. RIP Uncle Kenny!
Hello… To all of you that have come for my dad, we are all grateful. My dad was the best thing in my life. He was a humble man, hard worker and terrific provider. I can honestly say my dad never raised a hand to me or had harsh words. Though he had a way of looking at me … that would let me know I had let him down and I would immediately feel the shame I had brought on myself for this disappointment.
I often share this story with my friends, that if there were a store that sold parent’s I literally could not have done any better !!! I had a great Dad and so many memories. Though I will miss that round face with that contagious smile and laugh. I have memories that sustain me until I see him again.
No, I will not morn him, for I didn’t lose him. I know exactly where he is. No, I will not morn, but celebrate him with all my heart for the privilege of being his son !!!
I Love You Dad ! Say hello to Rod, Uncle Bob and George. Say hello to Uncle Aldy, Louie and Aunt Lill. Say hello to all of those who have went on before us.
Thank You Dad For Everything You Did For Me and All of Our Family.
I Love You and Will See You Soon
Services
Schedule Details
A public visitation will be held from 4-7 pm on Friday, February 27, 2026, at the Daniel Funeral Home in St. Cloud, MN. Private burial of his urn will be in the St. Marcus Parish Cemetery at Clear Lake, MN.