Walt C. Thiede

Visitation Date: Monday, March 25, 2024
Visitation Time: 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Funeral Date: Monday, March 25th, 2024
Funeral Time: 6:30 pm
Place of Funeral: Salerno's Rosedale Chapels
Funeral Notes: Chapel Service and Words of Remembrance to begin at 6:30 p.m.
Interment: Private

Walter C. Thiede, a man of unwavering strength, profound kindness, and boundless love, passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 14, 2024, at the age of 96, in Lake Havasu City, AZ.

Born on January 15, 1928, in Schiller Park, IL, to Walter C. and Anna C. Thiede, Walter answered the call of duty at the tender age of 17, bravely serving in the Navy aboard the APA Thomas Jefferson in the South Pacific. His courage and commitment during wartime set the stage for a life defined by service, resilience, and an unwavering spirit.

Throughout his life, Walter embraced various careers, including a structural ironworker and retired as a Maintenance Supervisor for School District 211 in the Chicago area. Yet, his greatest legacy lies in the love and devotion he shared with his family and friends.

Walter is survived by his significant other of 24 years Marilyn Flick, his sons Walter G. and David, daughters Kelly (Chuck) and Roberta, his bonus daughter Sue (Marilyn’s daughter), and their combined families, which include 12 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and his cherished four-legged companion, Emma. While Walter’s journey on Earth has ended, his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

He now joins his late wife Louise, late brother Albert, late sister Lucille, late daughters Barbara and Donna, late grandson Wally, and his late best friend Bobbie Scholl in heavenly reunion, where they will continue to watch over those they left behind.

Walter’s zest for life was evident in his many passions, from fishing and golf to dancing and coaching. He found joy in simple pleasures, like playing Spider Solitaire and cheering for his beloved Chicago sports teams. His love for Westerns, particularly the “Lonesome Dove” miniseries, knew no bounds, a testament to his timeless spirit and enduring character.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to any veterans’ organizations, a cause close to Walter’s heart, symbolizing his lifelong dedication to serving others. As we bid farewell to Walter C. Thiede, we celebrate a life well-lived, a legacy of love, courage, and unwavering faith that will continue to inspire generations to come.