Theodore Lance Holthusen

Theodore Lance Holthusen, age 87, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.

Born on September 4, 1938, in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, Lance was the son of Theodore Gregory Holthusen and Rozella Holthusen. He was raised in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, and spent cherished summers at White Sand Lake, where he developed a lifelong love of family, nature, and fishing.

Lance graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point in 1962 with degrees in Political Science and English Literature. After a transformative experience studying in Germany, he followed his calling to serve others, earning his Master of Divinity from Luther Seminary in 1969. He served as a pastor in Eau Claire and St. Paul before going on to found the Future Studies Department at the Science Museum of Minnesota in 1972. He later founded TLH & Associates, dedicating his career to helping organizations plan for the future.

In 1994, Lance married the love of his life, Ruth Elaine Holthusen. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and deep companionship, sharing over three decades of marriage.

Lance was a man defined by gratitude, faith, and service. After achieving over 30 years of sobriety, he devoted himself to helping others through his work with NorthStar Problem Gambling and People Incorporated, offering compassion and guidance to those in need.

He found joy in simple pleasures—time with family, Wednesday morning breakfasts with his son, Friday morning gatherings with lifelong friends, traveling to Sanibel Island, birdwatching, and cheering on the Green Bay Packers.

Lance is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth; his son, Theodore Grant Holthusen; his grandchildren, Emma (fiancé Ben Sauers) Holthusen, Cooper Holthusen, and Cash Holthusen; his stepdaughters, Janelle (Gerald) Peterson and Carolyn (Mark) Schlitter; step grandchildren, Jake (Katie) Peterson, Karl (Taylor) Peterson, Jenna (Bryan)Swon, Nathan (Deanna) Schlitter and Mari (Derek) Yell; 13 great-grandchildren; his brother, Dr. Gregory (Pollyann) Holthusen; his sister, Sue (Barry) Gray; sister-in-laws, Helen Hollis; and Dorothy (Loren) Wright; former; wife, Janice Carol Borgan; and many extended family members and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Lance will be remembered for his selfless love, unwavering faith, and deep commitment to his family and community. His legacy lives on in all who knew and loved him.

Memorial Service 11 AM Friday, April 17, 2026, at Servant of Christ Lutheran Church, 740 East Hayden Lake Road, Champlin, with visitation 1 hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Servant of Christ Lutheran Church or People Incorporated.