Edward Thelen served as Judge of the Probate and Juvenile Courts of Washington County for a quarter century. He seemed to possess all the qualities necessary for effective service in that office. In addition he served his community in other ways as well: he was active in the St. Croix River Improvement Association, an officer in the Washington County Historical Society and, as a veteran of World War I, active in the American Legion. After his death on April 6, 1956, one week shy of his sixty-seventh year, he was recalled at services in district court by a committee of his close friends for the county bar association:

"Judge Thelen was a friendly man, highly regarded by all who knew him. He was an able and conscientious judge. The lawyers who practiced in his Court were always treated courteously. He was at all times ready and willing to assist and give advice to younger members of the Bar, who practiced in his court."

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