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- Richard Van Thiel (1956 - 2017)
Richard Van Thiel, age 60, passed away on Wednesday, April 26, 2017 in the arms of his loving wife, Claudia.
Rick was born on December 20, 1956 - the family's Christmas Baby - in Combined Locks, WI, the son of Roman and Evelyn (Brum) Van Thiel. Rick married his soul mate, Claudia Tourville, on July 31, 1976 at Holy Name Catholic Church in Kimberly. Together they enjoyed 40 years of raising a family while sharing adventure, laughter, and love with family and friends all over the world.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Romy and Evie, whom he loved and respected. He missed them very much. By following their example, he embraced the role of devoted husband, thoughtful, fun-loving Dad, and gentle, playful Papa. He lost a dear sister, Barb Hartjes, who brought him strength through his own health struggle. He was also preceded in death by a father-in-law that he loved, Claude Tourville.
He's proud to have been a generous father to his two kiddos, Jacalyn and Philip, and enjoyed family trips, boating, cabin time, and skiing. He had a way of sprinkling words of wisdom into everyday life and taught them to appreciate the important things.
Jackie & Seth Jirikowic (Plymouth), could not have loved him more. Jackie's favorite place in the world was wrapped up tight in her Dad's hug and he would never let go until she did. Her four children introduced him to his absolute favorite role: Papa. Lily is his sunshine who brightened even his darkest days. Nick is growing to be a good man and gentleman, just like his Papa, and they loved watching sports together and talking stats. Juliet was his tiny little sprite - full of pure joy and giggles who always brought a smile to his face. Chase was his buddy who shared games, puzzles and a good nap. Papa will live on in their hearts forever through all of life's big and little moments. He will never, ever be forgotten.
Philip and fiancé Jennifer (Soule) (Denver, CO) will cherish the memories that were made. Phil was his Dad's favorite golf buddy, enjoying courses across Wisconsin, Hilton Head Island, Savannah, and Boise in addition to experiencing 'The Masters' together. They also spent time kayaking and canoeing the lakes of Wisconsin and the reservoirs of Idaho, as well as skiing in Colorado and trips to Lambeau when the opportunity was given. There was no limit to the amount of jokes cracked or hours of yard work put in together. The guidance Rick instilled in his son will not fade away.
He is survived by two sisters and their husbands: Marsha & Roger Schanke (Appleton), Susie & Pat Hermus (Combined Locks), brother-in-law Don Hartjes (Kewaunee). He is also survived by four brothers and their wives: Mark & Jean Van Thiel (Combined Locks), Tom & Sandy Van Thiel (Little Chute), Dave & Kath Van Thiel (Hartland), and Bob & Jolene Van Thiel (Kimberly). He always looked forward to the annual Van Thiel Open and any other time he could spend with his family. He loved them all so very much.
He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Carol Tourville (Kimberly); two sisters-in-law who were always like sisters to him: Barb Beck (Mike Radtke, Darboy) and Michelle Tourville VandenBoom (Michael Schmidt, Darboy); brothers-in-law Don Tourville (Bear Creek), Tom Tourville (Africa), Pat (Susan) Tourville (Darboy), Mike (Rena) Tourville (Appleton), Jeff (Sheila) Tourville (Menasha), and Tom Beck who has always been like a brother.
His extended family includes many nieces and nephews who held a very special place in his heart. He enjoyed spending as much time as he could with them whether it was an occasional round of golf, fishing, Beer Camp, a dinner while visiting their city, a gondola ride down the Swiss Alps, or a lazy day on a South Carolina beach.
After a four-year commitment to the Air Force where Rick developed a passion for all things related to aviation, he enjoyed a long, successful career in Corporate Aviation Sales, retiring in July 2016. He was fortunate to work alongside some of the most talented, quick-witted, sincere and loyal people…many who have become dear friends and 'bruthas.' It is an industry that allowed him to travel the world with his sweetie, live in Switzerland, and many parts of the USA. He was touched to be included in prayers, positive thoughts and good wishes of so many during his illness.
There are so many compassionate medical staff members to thank for the excellent care and genuine concern for Rick's health and life. Dr. Bucur and her staff at MSTI in Meridian, Idaho initially took the role until Rick and Claudia moved to Sheboygan in 2016. Once there, Dr. Kumar, his Nurse Navigators, Nurses and staff at Vince Lombardi Cancer Clinic took the reins and squeezed every good day out of him that they could. They have the eternal appreciation of his entire family.
A memorial visitation will be held at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, 818 Huron St, Sheboygan, WI on Tuesday, May 2 from 9:30am until the time of the funeral Mass at 11:00am. Reverend Matthew Widder, who helped him find peace in his final days, will celebrate the Mass for Rick. Inurnment will take place at Calvary Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of any flowers, for those seeking to honor Rick's life, please feel free to make a contribution to his memorial fund.
The Olson Funeral Home & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Rick's arrangements.
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1956 - 2017 (60 years)
