Thomas George Van Thiel

Thomas George Van Thiel, 87, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by the love of family and friends. Born in Seattle, Washington, Tom was the beloved son of Ted and Patsie Van Thiel and brother to Edward Daniel Van Thiel. His early years led him to Port Orford, Oregon, where he graduated from high school before continuing his education at the Oregon Technical Institute and Portland State University.

Throughout his life, Tom worked for several companies, including Boeing, Sun Music, ESI and Puget Die Casting, gaining experience and building relationships that shaped his career. In 1975, Tom and his first wife, Margaret, founded TVT Die Casting and Manufacturing, a company that would become a lifelong source of pride for him.

For more than 50 years, Tom arrived to work at 6 a.m. without fail, greeting employees at the front desk and setting the tone for the day. Under his leadership, TVT became known for its commitment to quality, exceptional customer service, and dependable on time delivery. Tom believed deeply that his employees were part of his extended family, and he treated each of them with the same respect, care, and loyalty he showed to those closest to him.

In 2021, Tom was honored with the Distinguished Service Award from the North American Die Cast Association, Los Angeles Chapter—recognition of his decades of dedication, leadership, and contribution to the industry he loved. He also gave generously of his time and experience by serving on the Board of Directors for the Oregon Technical Institute. Through a scholarship established in his name, Tom continued to support and encourage students, helping future generations pursue their education and careers.

Tom’s main hobby was being an accomplished pilot and flew his prized Beechcraft Bonanza V-tail airplane for many years.

In 2008, Tom married the love of his life, Myrna Hartley. Myrna preceded him in death, and her loss remained one of the great heartbreaks of his life.

Tom is survived by his daughters, Jill Cox and her husband David; Nicole Bilodeau and her husband Doug; and his blended family; Diane Hartley; Melvin Hartley; and Deb Jacobs and her husband Gary. He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, and one more expected, each of whom brought him tremendous joy and pride.

The passing of Tom will be felt by many. His genuine curiosity and eagerness to truly know those around him—often expressed through questions that could be probing yet always sincere—left a lasting impression on everyone he met. By the end of even a brief conversation, Tom would know who you were, what your family was up to, and where life was taking you.

He freely shared his thoughts, insights, and perspectives, offering wisdom and commentary to anyone willing to listen. Tom was known for his ready smile, his encouraging words, and his ever-present updates on current events. He held strong views on life and did not hesitate to express them, believing firmly in the value of speaking one’s mind.

“Anyone that does not agree with this statement aren’t worth two knobs of goat shit and can go pack sand!!”

No service will be held, but per his wish Tom and Myrna will be launched together via a rocket. Their ashes will be released at the altitude of 10,000 feet which is the level Tom flew his aircraft. Their final flight will take place in Brothers, Oregon in June.