Wilburt J. Thiel

Wilburt Jerome Thiel, age 89, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on June 24, 2024 at Rocky Knoll Health Care Center. He was born on August 5, 1934 to the late Clarence and Elsie (Kiel) Thiel. Following his honorable service in the Army Reserves, he worked at Kohler Company as a maintenance technician. He met the love of his life Diane, and they were married on August 20, 1955 at St. John’s UCC in Sheboygan. Together, they raised three children: James, Barbara, and Judy. 

Wilburt loved fixing bicycles, going to garage sales, going to Polkas, puzzles, and of course, spending time with his friends and family. He also had a big heart. In fact, his daughter made him a nice shirt to wear when she was in high school, and for 36 years, he wore that red and white collared shirt with pride. Wilburt loved his hometown, known for helping neighbors and friends whenever needed. The world could use more people like Wilburt.

Wilburt is survived by his wife of almost 69 years, Diane, their children Barbara (Gregory) Sunke and Judy (Mike) Mueller, grandchildren Jennifer Wagner, Heather Wagner, Dylan Thiel, Alex Thiel, great-grandchildren Nevaeh, Cayd, Raylon and Rayah, his sister Sally Lane, and daughter-in-law Patricia "Patty" Thiel.

In addition to his parents, Wilburt is preceded in death by his son James Thiel, his grandchildren Bradley Jeske and Stacie Kanzelberger, and his brothers Clarence Thiel Jr., Norbert Thiel, and Marvin Thiel.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Rocky Knoll and Sharon S. Richardson Hospice for their care and compassion.

A memorial gathering will take place on June 27, 2024 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at Ballhorn Chapels, 1201 N. 8th St., Sheboygan, Wisconsin.

Burial will take place at Sheboygan Falls Cemetery, Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin, immediately following the gathering.

Please visit our website at www.ballhornchapels.com to share memories and offer condolences.