In Memoriam ~ Fr. Wilfred Theisen, OSB '47 - Saint John's Prep

Father Wilfred Theisen OSB, died December 3, 2024. Robert John Theisen was the sixth of nine children born to John and Elizabeth (Tabery) Theisen in Wadena, Minnesota, on September 5, 1929. After completing elementary school he entered Saint John’s Preparatory School in 1943. Following graduation as valedictorian in 1947, Robert enrolled in Saint John’s University. Two years later, he entered the novitiate and was given the name Wilfred. He professed simple vows as a Benedictine monk in 1950 and his final profession in 1953. After completing divinity studies at Saint John’s Seminary, he was ordained to the priesthood in 1956. Later, Father Wilfred received an MS degree in 1962 from the University of Colorado and a PhD in the history of science in 1972 from the University of Wisconsin.

Father Wilfred’s teaching career began in the physics department at Saint John’s University in 1953 and continued off and on through 2005. Father Wilfred became the liaison officer for the Collegeville Institute for Ecumenical and Cultural Research in 1975. He was a perfect fit for this role because of his ability to translate monastic and Catholic spirituality to people of all faith traditions. In addition, he worked as assistant director of the Hill Monastic Manuscript Library at Saint John’s University (HMML) from 1978 through 1983. Father Wilfred was part of the chaplaincy team that ministered to the Sisters of Saint Benedict’s Monastery, Saint Joseph, 1982 through 1985, and again in 1991 and 1992. Later, he worked as a receptionist at the Information Center in the Great Hall, and also found volunteering for many years in the Abbey Gift Shop a rewarding opportunity to meet and visit with alumni and other guests. As a homilist, Father Wilfred’s sermons frequently centered around points of ecclesial controversary, especially delving into the relationship between religion and science.

Father Wilfred was passionate about Johnnie athletics and attended many games, especially football and basketball, and was an avid golfer. Father Wilfred clearly loved people and stayed connected with many alumni and friends. He was welcoming of everyone and never overlooked an opportunity to extend hospitality to young and old with a friendly smile and engaging conversation. Father Wilfred died on December 3, 2024, in the retirement center of Saint John’s Abbey. He is survived by his sister-in-law, Marilyn (Lyle), and his monastic confreres. The monks, family and friends will receive the body at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 5 and celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial for Father Wilfred on Friday, December 6 at 9:00 a.m. in the Saint John’s Abbey and University Church, with interment in the Abbey Cemetery. The service will be live-streamed at www.saintjohnsabbey.org/live.