Obituary of Reidar Tholfsen

You could always count on Reidar Tholfsen for a funny story or a good joke, a firm handshake or a warm embrace. He was deeply loved by his wife of 32 years Dottie Tholfsen and his family and friends. He died October 4, 2014 from pancreatic cancer at his home. His cancer never dampened his concern for others or his determination to enjoy his life to the very end. Those who knew "Radar" knew of his love for baseball and football. He had a brain for numbers which served him well his whole life. He held statistics and facts in his mental "computer", and if he forgot something, you can be sure it was written down on one of his many spread sheets, notebooks or handwritten charts. He was old school, as you would never see him with a computer or smart phone, but he never missed a birthday and he could recall how long it takes to get from Florida to Elmira or how many camping trips we took. Most people will remember Reidar for his sense of humor. It was rare when he didn't have a story to share, a joke to tell, or a pun to make you groan as he loved to make people laugh. As a young man he served in the U S Navy from 1952 to 1956. He then studied accounting and started his career as an IRS agent. He also was involved in Veterans Affairs serving as chaplain at the VFW, Elmira. One of his greatest joys in life was being a father. His blended family includes Cindy Brewer of Elmira, NY; Donna-Rei and Mark Sellers of Poland, NY; Paul and Ann Beach of Elmira, NY; Jolene and Andy Christian of Downingtown, PA; Julie and Art Nichols of Pine City, NY. He also cherished his beautiful grandchildren: Gregory Brewer and wife Jamie Miller Brewer of Edgewater, NJ; Ryan Brewer of Norwich, NY; Samantha, Megan and Katie Nichols of Pine City, NY; JohnMichael, Gavin, and Dean Sellers of Poland, NY; Amber, Danielle, Drew, Luke and Jeremy Christian of Downingtown, PA; Gregory Beach of Elmira, NY. He had the privilege of seeing his first great grandson, Chase Reiley. He is also survived by his sister, Anita Mullen of Rapid City, SD. He is predeceased by his daughter Laurie-Ann and his grandson Reid Sellers. Reidar Tholfsen was a rich man indeed. Not wealthy, but rich in faith and family, loyalty and love. His generosity could not be contained. He gave of his time, his talents and possessions to those who knew him. He was a dedicated and loving husband, a beloved and giving father and grandfather, a kind-hearted, friend, a fair and respected coworker, boss, and committed church member. Friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W. Water Street, Elmira, on Thursday, October 9, 2014 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, October 10, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 1054 W. Clinton Street, Elmira. With grateful hearts we thank Dr. Reddy, Barb Walton, Kate from CareFirst and the wonderful nurses at the Falck Cancer Center. Donations would be appreciated to the Patient Care Fund at the Falck Cancer Center or CareFirst. Officers and members of VFW Post #901 will meet at the funeral home on Thursday, October 9th at 7:45 p.m. to conduct a service for Reidar. Signed Charles Slater, Commander