Linda Thorsen

Linda Thorsen, 79, of Rhinelander, met Jesus face to face on the morning of October 31, 2025.

Born on July 23, 1946, in Rhinelander, Linda spent nearly her entire life in the community she loved. In 1969, she married her partner, Karl Thorsen. Although later divorced, they remained lifelong, devoted friends and continued to help and care for one another. They proudly raised their five children: Tim (Lisa), Dan, Kris, Matt (Bonnie), and Mitch.

Linda’s greatest joy was her family. She was the devoted grandmother to Kassi (Oliver) Crawford, Katrina (Jordan) Schmidt, Marcus Reed-Thorsen, Tyler Thorsen, Lily Thorsen, Noah Thorsen, Finn Thorsen, and Emily Thorsen. She also lovingly cared for her three great-grandchildren: Bennett, Joelle, and Sully Schmidt, always ready to help with any babies or young children — especially those under school age. Her nurturing heart extended beyond her own family, touching the lives of countless others through her work and friendships.

Linda was also survived by her siblings, Barbara (Dennis) Johnson, Cindy Cahak, Karen (Jim) Krupa, Phillip (Lynette) Marquardt, David Marquardt and Steve (Cindy) Marquardt, along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers Doug and Roger. 

She was employed with Zion Food Service, where she helped start the program, and later with the School District of Rhinelander, where she worked full-time until her retirement. Many may remember her from the years she ran the ‘Candy Shack’ at Hodag Baseball fields. Even after retiring, she continued to serve her community by working part-time at Kohl’s.

Linda loved shopping for her family — especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren — always finding joy in giving. She enjoyed dancing (especially line dancing in the 1990s), gardening, landscaping, and spending sunny days by the lake with her kids. She was, above all, a devoted mom — caring, joyful, and always in motion.

A celebration of Life will be held on her next birthday.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be directed to the Rhinelander Kiwanis Splash Pad in her memory: https://rhinelanderkiwanis.org/. This donation will carry on Linda’s deep love of children by allowing kids in her community to enjoy the splash pad for years to come.

Linda’s love, laughter, and giving spirit will be deeply missed and forever cherished by her family and all who knew her.

You may leave your private condolences for the Thorsen family at www.carlsonfh.com. The Carlson Funeral Home, 715-369-1414, is serving the Thorsen family.