David Thickens

DOUGHERTY FUNERAL HOME
600 East 2nd Street phone (218) 727-3555
Duluth, Minnesota 55805 Fax (218) 727-7514

David William Thickens, 48, of Duluth passed away unexpectedly on June 6. He was born April 9, 1967, to Richard and Joan Thickens in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He attended Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire for high school and received a Bachelor's degree in political science and economics from Princeton University in 1990, where he served as a volunteer firefighter and an EMT.

He worked for 18 years as a research analyst in Minneapolis, Milwaukee and Duluth. Since 2009 he served as a consultant for the energy industry in Duluth.

In 1991 David married Maggie Cook. They have three children: Jonathan (18), Anna (15) and Kate (14). David was deeply devoted to his family.

David was active in the community serving as past president of the Duluth/Superior Alpine Ski Club; current Atmore Memorial Chief of Race, standing President of USSA Central Region 1 Board and Treasurer for USSA Central Division. He served as chief of timing at the John Beargrease Memorial sled dog race. He volunteered his time and expertise as a member of various committees at Marshall School and Holy Rosary School. He helped mentor dozens of local youth ski racers. He admired the fearlessness that both ski racers and honey badgers possess.

His favorite places were Madeline Island, the British Virgin Islands, and the sidelines of his kids' sporting events. He was an avid outdoorsman, sailor, and master of barbeque. He loved good scotch, the newest gadgets, and a good "field repair"; but most of all he loved doing things as a family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Joan Thickens. He is survived by his wife, his three children, his brothers Richard (Mary) Thickens and Bob (Pam) Thickens of the Milwaukee area, numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and in-laws, and his devoted dog, Artemis.

A memorial service will be held Friday, June 12, at 1 PM at the Marshall School, preceded by visitation at noon.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Duluth Superior Alpine Club, Order of Team Duluth; PO Box 3616, Duluth, MN 55803. Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home, 600 East 2nd Street, Duluth, MN 55805. 218-727-3555.