John Paul Thelen

June 20, 1955 - January 16, 2016

Whitewater - John Paul Thelen, 60, went peacefully in his sleep on Saturday morning, January 16, 2016. John was born in Racine to the late Anthony and Helen (nee: Riebe) Thelen on June 20, 1955. John met Barbara at Petrifying Springs Park and have been together for many loving years. They lived on a beautiful piece of property in LaGrange, WI surrounded by the lower Kettle Moraine with all their critters. John loved his animals. He has always had a dog, at least four cats and some unusual animals. Although Barb was the love of this life, John also found a new love when Big Blue the peacock showed up. John charmed Big Blue into staying by feeding him specials foods, playing his harmonica and serenading him with special songs. You could hear John and Big Blue conversing back and forth together in a special language. John was a really good cook. He could make foods, spices and flavors from whatever was around and turn it in to something delicious. The funny thing is he never would eat what he cooked or even taste it! He was basically a meat, potatoes and corn kind of guy. John had a special gift of gab. He could talk to anyone. John was rarely at a loss for words or opinions, whether it was at all the little towns Barb and John would visit on their every Saturday ‘Rummage-a-Rama’ excursions or in one of the small surrounding towns, visiting mechanics on a very regular basis. John was a self-employed contractor who would help anybody who asked. He was “Jonny on the Spot” when it came to fixing anything from cars, garage doors, small engine and anything around the house. It takes a special gift and intelligence to be able to fix anything and John was one that could do it. His talents and care were appreciated and will be missed. John was also one who stayed true to his project; he finished what he started. He was adventurous and would try anything. He stood up for himself and was smart as a whip. He will be deeply miss by all who knew him. John is survived by his special love of his life, Barbara Matranga; brothers and sisters, Betty Salgado, Bill Thelen, Anthony Thelen, Eddie Thelen, Timothy Thelen, Robert (Michelle) Thelen, Annie (Bob) Fellion and Tommy Thelen; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his sister, Rose Roquer. A celebration of John’s Life will be held at Buona Vita’s in Elmwood Plaza Shopping Center, 3701 Durand Avenue, Racine, WI 53405 on Tuesday evening, January 19, 2016. Visiting hours will be from 4:00 PM until 5:30 PM. Deacon Russell Misurelli will have ceremonial words and eulogy starting at 5:30 PM. Condolences may be shared at www.wilsonfuneralhomeinc.com.