Obituaries

Douglas Aaron Thiel, age 83 passed away peacefully in his sleep in Seattle, WA, on March 29^th 2022 after a brief illness. He lived a long full life; was loved by all who knew him, and leaves many friends and family behind.

Doug, as he was known to his friends, wanted the below to be used once he passed:

I’m Doug Thiel and I’ve passed. It was time to go, I knew it, and I’m thankful for it.

I’m a Polish-German-American proud of my ancestry and grateful my grandparents had the good sense to come to the USA.

I was born July, 1938 in Ritzville, WA – on a very hot day!

My 1956 High School graduation class was super, bright, respectful & uncommonly attractive. Our class meets every 10 years and what fun that’s been.

I’m proud to be a Husky, a Husky Fiji class of 1960, and a former Lakeside teacher and coach.

I’m proud to be a Marine. I needed the Corps more than it needed me. Semper Fi!

I’m having a “Last Get Together” (soon to be determined). If you knew me, you’re welcome. If not, find something else to do. 

Doug was born July, 1938 to Aaron and Allie Thiel of Ritzville, WA. His brother Stephen Thiel joined him a few years later.  Doug graduated from Ritzville High School in 1956 and graduated from the University of Washington in 1962 receiving a BA in English.  He then started teaching at Lakeside School in Seattle and remained there for over 25 years.  After that, Doug enjoyed writing, being involved in the Roosevelt Neighborhood Association and was also a member of St Catherine’s church in Maple Leaf.  If you ever met Doug, you would know he was the consummate conversationalist.   Always had a good story to tell (or re-tell!) and enjoyed being around people!  He truly lit up when he was story telling!

Doug married Sarabeth Cooper in 1961 and had two sons – Curtis and Craig – and enjoyed raising their family in the Cowen Park area of Seattle for over 60 years.

Doug is survived by his loving wife Sarabeth Thiel, his son Curtis Thiel and daughter in law Susan Garred; and his 2 grandchildren – Alexandra Thiel and Emily Thiel, all of Seattle, WA.  He is also survived by his brother Stephen Thiel and his wife Venus in Concord, CA.  Also survived by many cousins and friends in Ritzville, WA and Seattle WA. He was preceded in death by his parents and his youngest son, Craig.

A party celebrating Doug’s life will be held mid June, 2022. We are finalizing a venue and you can call 206-898-9660 for more information after May 1st.

Donations can be made in Doug’s name to the American Heart Association, or a charity of your choice.

Semper Fi