James Edward Theilen

James Edward Theilen, 76, Cedar Falls, died Sunday, June 18, 2023 at Harmony Waterloo. James was born June 7, 1947 in Elma, Iowa to the late Henry and Julia (McLaughlin) Theilen. He graduated from Rockford High School and honorably served in the US Army from September 1966-October 1968, serving a tour in Vietnam. When he returned home, James worked in the Cedar Valley at various businesses throughout his life.

James was a simple, gentle man who loved nothing more than the peace of the outdoors and time with family and friends.  His love of the outdoors was as an amateur horticulturist raising his own bonsai trees and caring for his plants. James' greatest passion was music, he was a very talented musician and singer. Over the years, he played in several bands both locally and also traveled the country in full-time road bands. He also enjoyed playing with family during get-togethers and teaching his nieces and nephews how to play the guitar.

James is survived by his siblings, Joanne Lubbert, Rose Mary (James) Starr, Anthony (Dorothy) Theilen, Joseph Theilen, Katherine Welshans, Julia (Pete) Natvig and Anna May (Roger) Jones; special friends, Jodie Mayne, the Youngblood family; and other extended family and friends. He is preceded in death by his brothers, Marlan, Theodore, Harold, Henry and infant brothers Donald and William; in-laws, Kenneth Lubbert, Janice Theilen, Patricia Theilen, Judy Theilen, Joyce Theilen and David Welshans.

The Celebration of Life for James will be at 2:00 PM on Thursday, July 6th, 2023 at Dahl-Van Hove-Schoof Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 1:00-2:00 PM on Thursday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Cedar Falls AMVETS Post #49.