Roger F. Thiele

Roger Frederick Thiele, 92, of Lena, IL passed away Friday, September 2, 2022 at home surrounded by family. He was born September 14, 1929 in Freeport, IL to Frederick Carl and Iola Loretta (DeWall) Thiele. On June 17, 1951 he married his beautiful bride Barb "Snooks", they spent 71 wonderful years together before her passing on July 17, 2022. Roger joined the Freeport Fire Department in February 1951, working as a Chief Mechanic until he retired in July 1974. He also worked as a Fleet Superintendent at Kaney Trucking Incorporated (KTI) in Rockford, IL retiring in 1992. After retirement, Roger and his wife, Barb, purchased 45 acres, built a home, and started a walnut tree farm, where they planted over 20,000 trees. They were members of the Illinois Walnut Council. He built many things for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren from the wood harvested on their property. Roger and Barb were avid gardeners. Their harvests would be canned and enjoyed all year long. They also enjoyed making pickles, popcorn, sauerkraut, zucchini relish and their famous applesauce. Surviving are his two sons Robert F. (Kathy) Thiele of Waterloo, IA and William F. Thiele of Freeport, IL; daughter Debra J. Altensey of Lena, IL; three sisters Janice E. Lehmann of Freeport, IL, Jeanette S. Cox of Colorado, Shirley A. (Donald) Marcum of Freeport, IL; sister-in-law Emma J. Thiele; six grandchildren: Connie M. Bicksler, Stephanie A. Smith, Alisha J. Frakes, Mindi J. Thiele, Jenna M. Thiele, and Traci A. Thiele; and nine great-grandchildren. He is proceeded in death by his parents, his beautiful wife Barbara A. (Stewart) Thiele, one sister June L. Thiele, and one brother Ronald E. Thiele. The family would like to express gratitude and thanks to FHN Hospital and Hospice staff for their wonderful care and compassion.Per Roger's wishes cremation rites have been accorded and no funeral services or visitation will be held. There will be a family gathering next year. In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established in his memory