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BORN
1934
DIED
2021
Donald Thiel Obituary
Don was born in 1934 to parents Jacob Thiel and Melania Miller Thiel in the small town of Johnsburg, Illinois. Jacob taught the carpentry trade to his six sons. In 1955 Don and his brother Robert began what would become one of the largest shell construction companies in America, providing tens of thousands of job opportunities in several different states. Carpenter Contractors of America (CCA) was his passion for 69 years. He retired at age 85 in 2020.
He is survived by his wife Judith (Kuzmenko) Thiel, his children Elizabeth (Thiel) Gasparovic, Susan (Thiel) Prince, Kenneth Thiel, Jude (Thiel) Kuipers, Kimberly (Thiel) Dix, thirteen grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren and siblings, Robert Thiel, Gerald Thiel, Allan Thiel, and Sharon (Thiel) Dust. He was preceded in death by his son Donald Leo Thiel and daughter Marlene Helen Thiel.
The internment services will be a private family affair.
To comment or for more information, please see https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/deerfield-beach-fl/donald-thiel-10173913
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Donald Thiel
Rich Morris
April 27, 2025
Miss you Don. With Memorial Day approaching in several weeks I am reminded of the family cookouts on the beach, the perfection of grilled corn dunked in a vase of salted butter, and the endless crouquet games filled with laughter. Thank you for always making us feel like family and the years of great advice. I think about you often.
Michael Barron
April 27, 2025
Judy, just saw that the day of Don' passing was coming soon, just wanted to say I hope you are doing well. Please let us know if you should need anything. All the best,
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David Scott
May 13, 2021
Despite Don's tremendous successes, he remained humble, down to earth and approachable at all levels. His passion for Family, work and thousands of employees was second to none. He shared a work hard and play hard approach to life that many of us embrace and will continue to emulate throughout our lives. On or off the court, Don was a force to be reckoned with and admired. I cherish the countless memories we shared and will think of you often. RIP
John Thomas
May 12, 2021
In loving memory of a wonderful Boss. Our love and support to Judith and family. Don you will always be in our memories.
John Thomas and family.
Michael Krobatsch
May 12, 2021
I first met Mr. Thiel as a teenager (Around 30 years ago). I honestly can’t believe how time has gone by so fast. The first of many conversations I had with him was in the game room, he told me something that no one had told me up until that point, “If you love what you do you’ll never work a day in your life.” I know everyone has heard this expression before but this was the first time I heard it and everytime I tell someone else this I think of him.
I also will always remember the days playing backyard croquet, the bbq’s, and the CORN! Some of the best days I’ve ever had, playing croquet, sipping on crown and water, and wondering when the CORN would be done. To this day, the best corn I’ve ever had and I’m sure will ever have. I had never before played croquet but the backyard croquet with Don and company were some of the most heated battles on a field I’ve had (to win was a big deal when Don was playing). I’m happy to say I did win a few times, but Don definitely got the best of me and everyone else out there. He knew that court and it’s nuances so well.
Ever since our first conversation in the game room I considered Don a friend. He and the entire Thiel family have always made my family and I feel welcomed and appreciated. It makes me sad yet honored to write these words. Sad in the sense that I think this is the passing of a legend, honored in the sense that I knew him. Rest in peace Don
Bill & Kim Nash
May 11, 2021
We are praying for you Judith and your beautiful family. We would like to sponsor a child to Champions Kids Camp in Donald’s memory this summer. His name is Bentlee and he is 10 yrs old. He’s been through trauma but is beginning to heal. I pray for the love of God to fill your heart with His love and comfort.
Blessings,
Bill & Kim Nash
Andra
May 8, 2021
Mr. Thiel may be gone from our sight, but never from our hearts. He is a man you want to model your own life around. True love of family and life
Antoinette Lafrance
May 7, 2021
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
James Leonard
May 5, 2021
Don's passing is not only tragic ; but, heart breaking. He was a Friend to me and my entire Family, in so many ways. Without his caring, understanding and support; we would not be where we are today. May GOD bless his sole and his Wife , Judith. Help her with comfort and Love ; and a means to cope with his loss. Thinking of all the good times, brings a smile to my face and a warmth in my heart. Goodbye my Friend.
The Leonard Family
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