John Thoreen

Thoreen, John F. "Jack"

Age 92 of Stillwater died peacefully January 4, 2011. A distinguished career in Law and a lifelong commitment to community defined the life of "Jack" Thoreen. A graduate of Gustavus Adolphus and the University of Minnesota Law School, Thoreen served over seas during WWII. After discharge from the Army as a Major, Thoreen returned to Stillwater to become a partner with his father and brother-in-law that formed the Thoreen, Thoreen and Lawson Lawfirm. Thoreen was later elected Washington County Attorney in 1958 and then appointed Tenth Judicial District Judge in 1967. He had a reputation of being caring and was known as being one of the best trial judges in the state. After retiring from District Court he was hired to serve on the Minnesota Court of Appeals for nearly 10 years. He had a great passion to help make the world a better place through his career by helping form better laws, helping many others become excellent prominent judges and through community work.

As chair of the Tozer Foundation Scholarship Committee for 60 years, Thoreen read every one of the thousands of applications submitted, an extraordinary demonstration of his deep belief in area youth and the value of education. He was a Rotarian for many years and gave much in time and donations to Trinity Lutheran Church and Gustavus Adolphus.

"Jack" had many dear friends in the St. Croix Valley and Green Valley, AZ where he and large family groups lived a very active family oriented lifestyle - skiing, tennis, golf, fishing, canoeing and hunting. He had an enormous sense of humor and was kidding his friends, family and staff at Boutwell's landing up to the end.

"Jack" will join his parents, his sister Helen (2010) Lawson, his son John (1960), his good friend "Bob" (WWII) Lund, and his beloved wife "Liz" (2009). He is survived by children Sarah (Steve) Kumagai, Adine, Peter (January), grandchildren Jenna (Deitan) Dubuc, Betsy (Sam) Cornelius, Adam (Sarah), Andrew (Julie), great grandchildren Camille Dubuc, Dylan Dubuc, and a baby Thoreen on the way. He is also survived by many dear friends and extended family, Rod Lawson, David (Judy) Lawson, Rory Lawson, Mary Lawson and great nephews and nieces.

Memorial Service Monday 11 am at Trinity Lutheran Church, 115 N. 4 ^th St., Stillwater, MN with a gathering of friends and family one hour prior to the service at church. Bradshaw 651-439-5511