Marquette University mourns the loss of Rev. Albert R. Thelen, S.J.

Marquette University mourns the loss of Rev. Albert R. “Bert” Thelen, S.J., former director of campus ministry, who died on Friday, Jan. 17. He was 91. 

Father Thelen earned two degrees at Marquette – a bachelor’s in journalism and a master’s in English – in addition to studying education and psychology at Harvard University. He served in a variety of positions throughout his life, including as a teacher at Creighton Prep, rector at Marquette University High School and provincial of the Wisconsin Province of the Society of Jesus. He later was pastor on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota and at Creighton University. 

Visitation will be held on Saturday, Feb. 8, from 9 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at St. Camillus Jesuit Community. Mass will follow at 11 a.m. Cremains will be buried at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. 

Memorials should be sent to St. Camillus at 10101 W. Wisconsin Ave., Wauwatosa, WI, 53226. 

Please remember Father Thelen, his family and friends in prayer.