Leslie Thronson

Leslie E. Thronson passed away Saturday March 8, 2025 at Cascade Creek Memory Care.

Les was born June 7, 1935 to parents Leonard and Ida (Mogen) Thronson on a farm in rural Hayfield, MN. He was baptized July 16, 1935 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hayfield and was confirmed June 19, 1949 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Kasson. He grew up on a farm before moving to Kasson in 1951 and then to Rochester in 1954. He attended a country school his first seven years, then attended Kasson Schools graduating in 1953. Les served his country as a member of the US National Guard of Minnesota for eight years.

Les married Judith (Judy) Steffenson September 10, 1960 at Zumbro Lutheran Church in Rochester. They have one son, Rich and two grandsons Riley and Kirby. Les had unconditional love for his family and passed on his life values by his example.

Les worked at IBM in the manufacturing and productions control areas for 35 years retiring in 1992. He was a member of their Quarter Century and Alumni Clubs. He then worked part-time in the guest services department at Mayo Civic Center for 26 years retiring in 2018.

After retirement Les enjoyed his many years helping good friends on their farm during spring work through harvest. Les was an active member at Olmsted's History Farm which included mowing the grounds and where he could use his restored 1953 Ford Jubilee tractor at their events. He took pride in the care of his possessions, especially his vehicles. He served his church in several ways, most notably as an usher. He was a loyal friend to many and valued the comradery and friendship of all our folks along his life's journey. Les enjoyed dining out, coffee with friends, family get-togethers, card club for fifty years, bus trips, old time and country music, and following sports especially the Minnesota teams.

Les is survived by his wife Judy of 64 years, son Rich and partner Julie, his two grandsons Riley and Kirby, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter-in law Marcy Thronson, nephew Kyle Steffenson and two brother-in-law's John and Earl Steffenson.

Special thanks to the folks at Cascade Creek, Mayo Homebound and Season's hospice for their care of Les.

Memorials may be directed to Zumbro Lutheran Church or to a fund of your choice. Memorial service for Les is on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 11:00am with visitation one hour prior at Zumbro Lutheran Church, 624 3rd Ave. SW, Rochester, MN. The service will be livestreamed on www.zumbrolutheran.org. Interment will be at Grandview Memorial Gardens, Rochester MN.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Thronson family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.