David Paul Thieken

David "Dave" Paul Thieken, devoted father and grandfather, passed away on October 15, 2022, at the age of 77.
He is survived by his son, Todd Thieken, three daughters, Nicole (Brett) Fuller, Tracy Riddlebaugh, and Lindsey (Matt) Thieken Moore, and their mother, Darlene Thieken; sister Beverly Hammond, brother Huck (Wanda) Thieken; grandchildren TJ (Katie) Thieken, Mackenzie Fuller, Bailee Thieken, Madeleine Fuller, Kyle Thieken, Olivia Riddlebaugh, Ava Riddlebaugh, Brody Gingrey; great granddaughter Quincy Thieken; and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Paul and June Thieken, brother Chuck Thieken, and nephew Scott Thieken.
Born in Columbus on March 31, 1945, David spent his childhood in Portsmouth OH, where he attended St. Mary's Elementary and Middle School, and Notre Dame High School. Dave received his Bachelors in Education from Bowling Green State University and Masters in both Educational Counseling (Cleveland State University) and School Administration (University of Toledo).
Dave's passion for education and working with students was evident throughout his entire professional career, holding roles across Ohio as both a teacher and counselor. Alongside his years in the classroom, he was fondly known as "Coach," dedicating more than 20 years on the football field. Also a track and wrestling coach, Dave inspired countless young men and women to be both better athletes and better people. Dave was an avid walker, even participating in multiple distance races. He could easily charm a stranger with his quick wit and loved to talk sports, often remembering stats and plays from decades-old games. He enjoyed crossword puzzles, going to the movies, and watching his beloved Buckeyes play.
But, more than anything, Dave loved his children and grandchildren, and his favorite hobby was anything that involved spending time with them. He made it a point to attend as many activities of his grandchildren as he could, always eager to watch them in sports, a play, or any other extracurricular. Every Christmas, when asked what he wanted, his only response was to spend more time together. He was quick to call to talk about an article to read in the paper (print, never online), where to find the cheapest gas, or to simply chat about the day. He was a proud and ever-supportive dad and papa.
Family will receive friends from 5-9pm at St. Joseph Catholic Church Activity Center(PAC) 670 West Main Street, Plain City, Ohio 43064 on Tuesday, October 18, 2022. Prayer vigil will begin at 8:30pm. Funeral mass will take place on Wednesday at 11am at St. Joseph Catholic Church 140 West Ave, Plain City, Ohio 43064
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to National Church Residence Foundation, the hospice that took such wonderful care of Dave in his last months, at https://columbusfoundation.org/the-giving-store/nonprofit-directory-listing/NationalChurchResidences/402