Joseph Donald Thielen

Joseph Donald Thielen, an 62-year-old resident of Saint Paul Park and a former Saint Paul native, peacefully passed away on January 27, 2026, in St. Paul, Minnesota. Born on June 27,1963, Saint Paul, Minnesota, Joe was a kind and generous person. He made and kept many friends. He married his job and was divorced from several.

Joe’s illustrious career as a chef spanned many years. He loved his job at Treasure Island, and was First Chef at Currents restaurant. Joe was deeply committed to any job he had. If he was supposed to be at work, he went to work. During his final illness, it pained him to be lying around when he could have been working. He was successful and received many accolades for his culinary expertise and we have to take their word for it because he never cooked for us. He was an award winning cake decorator. His work was exceptional. We have seen that. But we never tasted that either.

Beyond his professional achievements, Joe was cherished for his sardonic worldview and zest for life. He was an easy traveler and would go with anyone, but loved Las Vegas. Joe consistently exemplified the true meaning of, “Fun Uncle.” He loved to see his nieces and nephews laughing. He included all of them in the fun and ensured the shy and unsure were in on the joke. There were no outsiders to Joe.

In his leisure time, Joe took joy in a variety of interests that brought joy to his life. Animals held a special place in Joe’s heart; he loved cats. He had a series of black cats, Saigon, Martini, Frita, Morticia.

Another passion that consumed him was the world of entertainment. He found immense pleasure in immersing himself in the enchanting melodies and captivating stories of Broadway musicals.

Joe supported the Mrs. Minnesota competition, both assisting the design crew and creating original costuming for contestants.

Joe Thielen’s legacy will endure through the lives he touched, both professionally and personally. He leaves behind cherished memories that will be treasured by his family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the honor of crossing paths with his.

Joe is preceded in death by his father, George Thielen, and mother, Mary Jane (Pfeifer) Thielen, his sister, Judy Prowse and David, Judy’s husband. Joe is survived by his sisters, Lori Mitchell and Sharon Thielen; brothers Larry Thielen (Vicki), Dan Thielen (Kate); nieces and nephews, Jessie, Brandon, Caroline, Matt, Nikki, Patrick, Josh, Adam, and Megan; and great-nieces and nephews, Emerson, Jackson, Eliahs, Sawyer, Atticus, Cecilia, Harper and Philip.

There will be a celebration of life this summer. Details to follow.