Thelma Coleman, age 85, of Mahnomen, MN, died peacefully Saturday, February 20, 2021, at the Mahnomen Health Center Nursing Home.

Thelma Jean was born on October 25, 1935, one of 14 children lovingly raised by John and Mary (Peabody) Wadena. She grew up in the Naytahwaush, MN, community where she attended school. Following high school, Thelma received training as a beautician. Her family grew quickly as she was blessed with 7 children. Thelma's passion was her children, and later, her grandchildren. She was a devoted mother and the rock of her family. On May 14, 1978, Thelma married Ronald Coleman and together they raised their family. She not only cared for their own children but many extended friends and family members as well. Due to failing health, Thelma moved to the Mahnomen Health Center Nursing Home in 2017. In 2019, Ronald moved to the nursing home for a short time before his death and Thelma has continued to make her home there since.

Thelma was a devoted Christian and enjoyed going to church. Her faith carried her through many trying times in her life. When she was able, Thelma liked going to the Casino and playing Bingo. She also spent hours working on jigsaw puzzles, cross words, reading, and watching the Price is Right. Above all she cherished her time with family.

Thelma is survived by her children: Shirlene Wakemup, Jeffrey (Dolly) Coleman, David (Beth) Burnette, Chad (Jolene) Burnette, Cory (Melissa) Burnette, and Craig Burnette; and one sister, Mavis Bush; 30 grandchildren; 57 great-grandchildren; and 15 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mary; her husband, Ronald; four children: Denise Burnette, Faith Burnette, Floyd Burnette, and Delmar Burnette; siblings: James Sargent, Sweed Sargent, Archie Sargent, Bob Sargent, Clairene Sargent, Clyde Sargent, Myron Sargent, Delmar Sargent, Aldora Sargent, Avie Sargent, Chip Wadena, Jack "John" Wadena; granddaughters, ShiAnn Coleman and Jaylynn Auginaush; grandsons: Adam "Ice" Burnette, Wayne Goodman and Christopher Strong; and great-grandson, Keith Richotte.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 26, 2021 at the Naytahwaush Sports Complex, Naytahwaush, MN. Visitation will be held Thursday, February 25, 2021 from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. with a Prayer Service beginning at 7:00 p.m. at the Naytahwaush Sports Complex. Burial will be in the Free Gospel Alliance Cemetery, Naytahwaush, MN, in the spring.

Following all Covid-19 safety protocols, social distancing will be practiced, and all must wear a mask to participate.

Please feel free to sign the guestbook, send condolences and view other opportunities which may be available to the public due to COVID-19 restrictions.