Clarence Walter Thrun

Thrun, Clarence Walter Sept. 3, 1933 - Aug. 18, 2020 Clarence W. Thrun died Tuesday at Regions Hospital, St. Paul, aged 86. Born to Harvey and Julia (Oetterer) Thrun near Finlayson, MN, he grew up in Pine county. He joined the family business, Thrun Trucking, as a driver, then a dispatcher. Later in his career he operated his own freight claims inspection company. He married Charlotte Rosalie Ordner in 1959, and they raised their family in New Brighton, living in the same home for 47 years. He was a devoted husband and father, and he described the family as his greatest accomplishment. He was a devout Catholic throughout his life, being active in St. John the Baptist parish, including leading the daily rosary in recent years. He was also dedicated to the People of Praise community. Like his parents, Clarence was an enthusiastic musician, sometimes performing professionally, more often with friends and at informal jams. He played polkas and dance music, bluegrass and folk, first on accordion and mandolin in later life. He helped arrange the entertainment schedule in his apartment building. He loved cribbage and jigsaw puzzles. He is survived by Charlotte, his wife of 61 years; his children Michael (Josie) Thrun, Elizabeth (Wayne) Saewyc, and Joseph Thrun; his brother Theodore (Margaret) Thrun; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother John (Rosemarie) Thrun, and daughter Laurie (Jeff) Southerton. There will be a visitation on Monday August 24 at 9:30am, followed by a funeral mass at 10:30am, both at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church, 835 2nd Ave NW, New Brighton, MN 55112. Due to COVID19, there will be no luncheon. millerfuneralfridley.com