Jack Thorstenson Obituary

Jack G. Thorstenson, 94 formerly of Bayles Lake, passed away at 4:00 p.m. Friday, May 20, 2022, at the Gibson Area Hospital Annex.

Jack was born December 22, 1927, the oldest son of Julius and Sarieta McCarter Thorstenson.  The family lived in Indiana and moved to Illinois, growing up in Paxton.  Jack graduated from Paxton High School in 1945 and joined the United States Army.  Following his discharge, he earned a Doctor of Optometry from Illinois Optometry College, practicing in Champaign, St. Louis and Kansas City.  After his retirement, he returned to Bayles Lake.

He married his high school sweetheart, Darlene Larson, October 27, 1950 in Chicago.  She preceded him in death April 22, 1990.

Jack is survived by one son, Keith Thorstenson of Kansas City, MO; one brother, Bob (Diane) Thorstenson of Bayles Lake; one nephew Todd (Julie) Thorstenson of Champaign and special to him, his niece Tanya (Matt) Judy of Lake Iroquois; one great nephew and three great nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and one son, Gary Thorstenson.

Jack was a member of the Corn Belt Shrine Club, Gibson City and the Paxton Masonic Lodge #416.  One of Jack’s pleasures was driving a mini car as a Shriner in local parades. He was also an avid Chicago Cubs fan.   

There will be no services at this time.  Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton is handling arrangements.

Memorials may be made in his name to Shriners Children’s St. Louis, 4400 Clayton Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110.  Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.