James (Jim) Bradley Thiel

James (Jim) Bradley Thiel, age 83, of Random Lake, Wis., passed away peacefully at home on Aug. 15, 2025, surrounded by family.

Jim was born on Oct. 6, 1941, in Milwaukee to Elmer Claus Thiel and Hilda (Knaack) Thiel. 

He grew up with Midwestern roots, strong and steady, and lived a life guided by faith, kindness and quiet generosity.

A graduate of Shorewood High School, Class of 1960, Jim went on to earn a degree in business and marketing from Drake University in 1964. 

He proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserve.

On Nov. 9, 1968, he married the love of his life, Marjorie Williams, in Grandview, Iowa. Their love was the kind that lasts — built on laughter, faith and years of shared adventures. Together they raised two children, Brad and Robyn, and built a home filled with unconditional love.

Jim found his calling not just in work, but in service. After gaining experience elsewhere, he joined Badger Tag and Label Corp. — the company his grandfather founded — where he built lifelong relationships and rose to become vice president of sales. 

He brought the same dedication to his community, volunteering with the Random Lake Fire Department as both a fireman and EMT, serving on the board of the United Fund and the Historical Society and volunteering with the Booster Club. He was also a devoted member of Open Door Bible Church, where his faith guided his hand and heart.

He had a spirit for adventure. With Marjorie, Jim traveled the world. He loved the wind in his face while sailing, the warmth of tropical beaches, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, the grandeur of European cities and the still beauty of Alaskan waters. Whether driving his Alfa Romeo with the top down or cheering for the Brewers or the Packers, Jim lived with quiet joy.

Above all, he loved being with those he held dear. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, Jim was patient, wise, kind and endlessly giving. He never needed to say much; his presence said it all. To know him was to feel safe, seen and deeply loved.

When you find yourself on a quiet road or standing in the wind by the lake or laughing with those you love, think of Jim and smile. He is there, still — in the breeze, in the sunlight, in every kind and generous moment.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Marjorie; his children Bradley (Jean) Thiel of West Bend and Robyn (Ryan) Wilson of Fraser, Colo.; his grandchildren Morgan and Michael Thiel from West Bend; his siblings Bonnie (Jim) Andrews and Don (Linda) Thiel of Fort Myers, Fla., and Paul (Leslie) Toepher of Grafton; his mother-in-law Verlee Williams of Muscatine, Iowa; and brothers and sisters-in-law Virginia and Steve Frye and David Williams of Muscatine, Iowa, Dr. Gary and Slyvia Cavanaugh of Stockton, Calif., and John Williams (Gina Anderson) of Terrebone, Ore., along with many other cherished relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Elmer and Hilda Thiel, his stepmother Betty (Klug) McKitrick, his father-in-law Harold Williams and his grandparents Emil and Lena Thiel and Adolph and Lena Knaack of Watertown. 

A memorial service will be held on Friday, Aug. 22, at noon at Open Door Bible Church in Port Washington, officiated by Pastor Sid Lidke. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Random Lake Historical Society, Random Lake Fire Department, Open Door Bible Church elevator fund or a charity close to your heart.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the medical staff who cared for Jim throughout his life but especially this past year — for their compassion, dedication and the comfort they gave during his final days.

Eernisse Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.