Patricia “Patti” Olsen-Theiler (Jahnke)

Patti, age 83, of Vail, Ariz., passed away March 5, 2025 from COPD and heart failure after a lengthy hospitalization. Survived by daughters Michelle (Mike), Elizabeth, Melissa (Blaine); sisters (Margaret, Kathleen); brothers (Max; James and wife Mary; Stephen); seven grandkids; special niece Brenda among numerous nieces and nephews; many Theiler stepkids and grandkids; and long-time best friend Nina. Born in Escanaba; grew up in Rhinelander then graduated from RHS; moved to Milwaukee to attend business school; soon after she married first husband Mel and relocated to Chicago where they had “three before 30” meaning: babies in her 20s! Patti was a modern woman for the times, working tirelessly (she bragged about needing just five hours sleep!); she juggled child-rearing, entertaining and family obligations while employed in finance and administration, HR or customer service. In the early 70s, she returned to the Rhinelander area where she lived 50-plus years, including decades of happy marriage to second husband Jim; after his death, she retired to Tucson with BFF Nina. Remember her by what made her happiest: klatsching with family and friends, doting on grandkids, her beloved Bichons and cats too, travel to warm destinations with Jim, gardening, knitting bespoke Christmas stockings, reading, pretty collections (jewelry, cosmetics, perfume), celebrating “St. Patti’s Day,” playing the slots and cheering her “God’s Team” — the Packers. Her warmth and compassion, caring and generosity, abundance of love and sacrifice for others, tremendous smile and sweet nature are truly missed. Predeceased by brother (Charles), mother (Margaret), father (Raymond) and husbands (ex Melvin Olsen and recent James Theiler). Burial will occur with a small gathering at Forest Home Cemetery in Rhinelander, Tuesday, May 27 at 11 a.m. 

Memorials to:

Patricia L. Olsen-Theiler Revocable Trust, 5765 Kelsey Drive, Shorewood, MN 55331.