Sophia A. DeVos

Jan. 20, 2021

NORTH MANKATO —

Sophia Amelia DeVos

was born on Jan. 18, 1933, to Alais and Svenina (Larsen) Thooft in Limestone Township of Lincoln County, Minnesota. She was raised and attended country school near Minneota and was baptized at St. Edward’s Catholic Church in Minneota. In second grade, she moved with her parents to Marshfield Township. She continued her education through 8th grade at Tyler Public School. At the age of 40, Sophie attended night classes to complete her education and earn her GED diploma. On Oct. 10, 1953, Sophie was united in marriage to James Joseph DeVos. The couple made their home in Marshall until they moved to Tyler in 1959. Sophie worked for Lincoln County Social Services for five years and was employed part-time with various organizations including Western Human Development, Coast-To-Coast, and Thomsen Hardware. She also helped with the Lyon and Lincoln County census in 1980 and 1990. James preceded Sophie in death on September 8, 1992. In order to be near to her family, Sophie relocated to North Mankato in November of 2020. She died peacefully on Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021, at Oak Terrace Assisted Living in North Mankato at the age of 88 years and 2 days.

Out of an abundance of caution for friends and loved ones amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, services in honor of Sophia will be private. Hartquist Funeral Home – Tyler Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements. To view a recording of Sophie’s funeral service, sign an online registry, or view her life history, please visit www.hartquistfuneral.com.

Sophie was a member of St. Dionysius Catholic Church in Tyler where she was confirmed and held several offices. She also served her community as a 4-H leader, service unit chairman for Tyler Area G.S., Community Chest secretary and treasurer, and Meals on Wheels coordinator. She was a member of the REM and PTA boards.

Sophie is survived by her children, Priscilla (Don) Hughes of Lake Benton, Brenda Vander Sluis of Sartell, Beverly (Dan) Sommervold of Mankato, and Janine (Paul) Matzke of North Mankato; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and siblings, Alfred Thooft and Doris Vermiere. She was preceded in death by her husband, James; son, Joseph; son-in-law, Jeff Gilbertson; four brothers, Henry, Alvin, Julius, and Oscar; and sister, Emma.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials be sent to The Arco Sportsman’s Club, St. Dionysius Cemetery Fund, or the donor’s choice.