Sophia A. Devos

Out of an abundance of caution for friends and loved ones amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, service for Sophie will be private. To view a recording of her funeral service, please click the following link: View Funeral Webcast

SOPHIA AMELIA DeVOS was born on January 18, 1933, to Alois and Svenina (Larsen) Thooft in Limestone Township of Lincoln County, Minnesota. She was raised and attended country school near Minneota, Minnesota 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 October 10, 1953, Sophie was united in marriage to James Joseph DeVos. The couple made their home in Marshall, Minnesota until they moved to Tyler, Minnesota 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, Minnesota in November of 2020. She died peacefully on Wednesday, January 20, 2021, at Oak Terrace Assisted Living in Mankato at the age of 88 years and 2 days.

Sophie was a member of St. Dionysius Catholic Church in Tyler, Minnesota 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, Minnesota, Brenda Vander Sluis of Sartell, Minnesota, Beverly (Dan) Sommervold of Mankato, Minnesota, 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.