Priya Theilen

Priya D. Theilen, age 43, of Willmar, died unexpectedly Monday evening, September 14, at her home.

Memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, September 21, at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Willmar. Interment will be in the First Lutheran Cemetery of Norway Lake. Visitation will from 5-7 PM on Sunday, September 20, at Peterson Brothers Funeral Home in Willmar and at the church one hour prior to the service.

Priya Darshani Theilen was born on February 3, 1972, in India. In 1975, she was adopted by Carsten and Karen Bjornstad. In 1975, Priya was baptized in Kodaikanal, South India and confirmed in Christ as a young adult. In 1977, she immigrated to the United States and received United States citizenship in 1985. Priya grew up and received her education in Birch Run, MI., Wausau, WI., and Ukarumpa, Papua New Guinea. On January 13, 1993, she was united in marriage to Robert D. Theilen and they made their home in Clear Lake, Iowa. In 1997, they moved to Willmar. Priya was employed most recently at Home Depot and Wal-Mart. She was a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church and active in the choral program. Priya was also active in the JOPPA program in Willmar. Her hobbies included gardening, painting, sewing and quilting. She also enjoyed music, playing the guitar, piano and flute. Priya will be best remembered for her lively spirit and one that would always make you happy. To God be the glory!

She is survived by her loving husband, Robert of Willmar; her father, Carsten Bjornstad of Scranton, PA.; three brothers, Rev. Kristian (and Monica) Bjornstad of Scranton, PA., Harlan (and Jennifer) Bjornstad of Valparaiso, IN., and Jacob (and Caryn) Bjornstad of Hutchinson; several nieces and nephews and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Karen in 2008.

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