Karl Martin Thorson

Karl (with a “K”) Martin Thorson, age 92, passed away on October 28, 2023 in Edina, MN with his daughter, Susan at his side.

Karl graduated high school in Coleraine, Minnesota and then enlisted into the United States Air Force, where he served our country earning Top Secret clearance to decipher codes to help keep our homeland safe. While home on leave, he met the love of his life, Glenis Jessie Lawrence whom he courted and married within a year.  At age 21 and 19, my father’s orders came through to send him to Anchorage Alaska. My mother by his side stayed there for two years with him and after serving his country, he attended University of North Dakota Grand Forks, and obtained a Chemical Engineering degree.

After working for Shell Oil for one year in Mt.  Vernon,WA, Karl applied to 3M and was offered a position starting as Plant Manager at 3M Chemolite, Cottage Grove, MN. After many promotions and 30 years later, Karl took early retirement at 57 as the Manufacturing Director of the Traffic Control Materials Division. He decided, he and Mom were going to have the time of their life and enjoy retirement at a nice young age which they did. They were married for 62 years before his beloved passed in November 2014.

Karl was a true gentleman to the end.  He greeted every single person in his path, and always held the doors open to let everybody go before him. It came naturally to him to be a kind and caring man. He was a ray of sunshine and kindness.  He made a difference in this world that will never be forgotten.

Karl is survived by his daughters,  Susan and Pam (Dan), 8 Grandchildren, Amy, Shane (Jenna), Ryan (Ashley), Krista (Will) Karl, Katie, Amanda, and Shanna, along with 9 Great Grandchildren.

Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, November 12, 2023 with a visitation 2:00-4:00 PM and service from 4:00-5:00 PM at The Waters of Edina 6300 Colonial Way Edina, MN.

In Lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the Disabled American Veterans:  https://help.dav.org/

Arrangements entrusted to SUMMIT Funeral & Cremation

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