Richard H. Thiel, age 86, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 9, 2021, at his home in O'Fallon, Missouri. Richard, known by family and friends as Rich, was born on October 20, 1934, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Henry and Marie Thiel. Rich was a graduate of Jennings High School, and subsequently enlisted in the United States Navy. While in the Navy, he was assigned to the USS Intrepid and served honorably for two years.
Rich married Lillie "Ann" (nee Nelson) Thiel on September 5, 1959. Rich and Ann were married for sixty-one years and raised their four children: Sharon, Michael, Lisa, and Betsy. Throughout their marriage, Rich and Ann enjoyed camping, boating, traveling, and the company of family and friends. He had a wonderful sense of humor, and everyone loved being around him.
Rich worked for over 35 years with AT&T, formerly Western Electric. While at Western Electric, he served as a lifelong member of the Pioneers. After retiring, he went on to serve his community as a senior shuttle bus driver for the City of Bridgeton. Rich was an avid golfer, bowler, loved working on cars and was quite the handy man.
Rich is survived by his wife, Ann; his children, Sharon (the late Bill) Phillips, Michael Thiel, Lisa (the late Michael) Carey, Betsy (Cory) Knapp; his ten grandchildren, Alissa Robinson, Katie (Sean) Ferrari, Jimmy Phillips, Michael Thiel, Amber Thiel, Justin Carey, Amanda (Robert) Wood, Dylan Thiel, Joshua (Hannah) Knapp, Logan Knapp, Luke Knapp; six great-grandchildren, Lily White, Chloe McBride, Austin Ferrari, Kyia Phillips, and Brayden Knapp; and his sister, Arlene Thiel.
Memorial contributions may be made in Richard's name to
CJ's Journey.
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