Vickie J. Thulen

Vickie J. Thulen, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away at her home in Savanna, IL, on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at the age of 59.

Born on June 19, 1965, in Brighton, CO, to Eugene and Phyllis (Smith) Young, Vickie spent her early years in Brighton before her family moved to Savanna, IL, to be closer to family. She graduated from Savanna High School in 1983. Not long after, Vickie married Terry Koiser, with whom she raised two children. Though they eventually went their separate ways, she remained a dedicated mother, tirelessly working to provide for her children and ensuring they had everything they needed.

In 2011, Vickie found lasting happiness with the love of her life, Jason Thulen. The two were married on September 10, 2011, and shared 13 years of a deeply loving and supportive marriage. Jason was truly the center of Vickie’s world, and she cherished the life they built together.

Throughout her life, Vickie worked in several local bars and restaurants as a bartender and waitress, known for her warmth and hardworking nature. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to own and operate Vickie’s Tap Inc. in Thomson, IL, for a time. Despite the demands of her work, Vickie’s greatest joy came from her family. She was a devoted mother to her children, Kristle and Shane, and loved taking them for little adventures to the old roller rink and the beach. She was always there for them through every challenge, offering her unwavering support. Vickie was her children’s biggest fan, protector, safety net, and sometimes just their best friend. She was the kind of mom you could talk about anything with and she wouldn’t judge. Vickie also doted on her five grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life. She relished family traditions, particularly celebrating holidays together.

In her spare time, Vickie enjoyed watching television and movies, particularly shows like MASH*, Laverne & Shirley, Little House on the Prairie, as well as movies like John Wick and Lord of the Rings. She also loved visiting casinos, where she played video slots and poker, finding relaxation in these moments of simple pleasure.

Vickie will be deeply missed by her loving husband, Jason Thulen of Savanna; her two children, Kristle (Derek) Cabell of Belleville, IL, and Shane (Jennifer) Kosier of Savanna; five grandchildren, Jasper, Aurelia, Autumn, Adam, and Owen; her brother, Rick Young of Savanna; and her dear friend, Robert Collins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Phyllis, and her aunt, Betty Speck.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. at the Law Jones Funeral Home in Savanna. Family and friends are invited to join in celebrating Vickie’s life from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., prior to the service.