Donald Thiel

Donald Thiel, age 75, passed away on April 11, 2026, in Fort Myers, Fla., following a courageous and prolonged battle with MDS/VEXAS.

Donald was the son of Walter Bohlmann and Betty Lou Klug. He attended Random Lake High School and later pursued culinary training, which led him to open Thiel’s of Random Lake restaurant. He went on to serve as an executive chef at Open Hearth. After 22 years in the culinary profession, Donald transitioned into a second career as a sales professional with Ferko Meat.

Donald met Linda Leist, and they were married on Oct. 19, 1973. Together, they shared more than 52 wonderful years of marriage. In 2009, Don and Linda moved to Fort Myers, Fla., where they enjoyed retirement, spending time golfing and embracing the warmth and sunshine of Florida life.

Donald is survived by his beloved wife Linda Thiel, sister Bonnie (Jim) Andrews, mother-in-law Elizabeth Leist, sister-in-law Marjorie Thiel, brother-in-law Dennis (Mary) Leist, sister-in-law Shirley (Richard) Scheer, his cousin Paul (Leslie) Toepfer and many dear nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Walter and Betty, stepfather Elmer Thiel, his brother James Thiel, his father-in-law Paul Leist and his cousin John Toepfer.

A service and Christian burial will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, W5406 County Rd. SS, Random Lake, WI 53075.