Mildred Thomsen

Mildred “Millie” Kopecky Thomsen, 94, of Clear Lake, died Thursday, Nov. 1, 2018, at her home.

A Celebration of Life was held on Monday, Nov. 5, at the United Methodist Church, Clear Lake, with the Rev. David Peterson officiating. Inurnment was held in Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City.

Her family suggests memorials to the Clear Lake United Methodist Church, 508 2nd Ave N, Clear Lake, or Hospice of North Iowa, 232 2nd Street SE, Mason City, Iowa.

Millie Kopecky Thomsen was born on April 1, 1924, in Mason City, to John and Hazel (Dutro) Kopecky. She received her education in the Mason City and Clear Lake School Systems, graduating in 1942. While in High School, she was a member of band, chorus and small groups. Millie played baritone horn, and received all state and national honors. She was the lead actress in the junior and senior class plays. Millie was also a long time member of the Clear Lake and Mason City Municipal Bands and soloed at many concerts.

Following high school, she attended Mason City Junior College for one year and three years at Coe College, graduating in 1946. She began teaching band and vocal music at Ventura and taught at many area schools: Thornton, Kensett, Rock Falls, Joice and Garner.

Millie married Frank Thomsen on Aug. 15, 1948 and farmed in the Clear Lake area. She enjoyed golf, gardening, cooking, bridge and 1942 class reunions. She also enjoyed spending time on the lake and fishing.  She especially loved spending time with her family.

She was a member of the Clear Lake United Methodist Church and the Mason City History Club.

Millie is survived by her son, Brian (Angel) Thomsen, Clear Lake; her four grandsons, Brett, Bridger, Drake and Ryder; and her nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Thomsen (July 30, 2010); her parents, John and Hazel (Dutro) Kopecky; three brothers, John, Cy and Dick Kopecky; and three sisters, Annette Schmidt, Pauline McCourt and Rosalyn Ames.

Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake, was in charge of arrangements.