(Source: Obit Michigan)

The owner of Thelen Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram in Bay City has passed away. Thomas Thelen, born September 2, 1942 in Dewitt died Thursday, November 7 at the age of 77.

Thelen moved to Bay City from Lansing in 1977 to follow his dream of owning his own auto dealership and providing a better life for his family. He was also the owner of a knife making company called Black Forest Blades. Thelen was involved in the community through charity work, founding the Thelen Family Foundation. He also sat on the board for Camp Fish Tales, a camp for adults and children with disabilities.

Visitation arrangements are made for Sunday, November 10 from 4:00-8:00 p.m. and on Monday, November 11 from 2:00-8:00 p.m. at Gephart Funeral Home in Bay City. The funeral will be held at Corpus Christi Parish Holy Trinity Church in Bay City Tuesday, November 12 at 10:30 a.m.