Douglas Thiele, 69, of Omro, passed away with his family by his side on November 14, 2017 in Oshkosh. Douglas was born on April 26, 1948 to the late Fredrick and Emma (Mueller) Thiele in Oshkosh. On April 28, 1983 he married the love of his life, Debra Johns. They went on to have six much loved children. Douglas was a lover of the outdoors, he was an avid hunter and fisherman. He also loved woodworking. He never let his disability get in the way of him having fun and serving others. Douglas loved his church. He was a "prayer warrior." he and his wife, Debra, were founding members of Essential Rock Church in Fond du Lac. He prayed for others daily, and prayed over every seat in church before a service, regardless of who was going to sit in it. He also led GriefShare within the church, which helps those who are experiencing a loss. Douglas was a polio and accident survivor. He was treasurer of "Challenge the Outdoors," which helps those who are disabled enjoy the outdoors like he did.

Douglas is survived by his children: Jamie (Mackenzie Schneider) Johns, Ryan Thiele, Heather (Brian Steeps) Thiele, Chris Thiele, Tiffany (Angie Kersey) Thiele, and Pat (Lorraine) Hegdus; grandchildren: Christian and Makayla Thiele, Bentley and the future Emma Thiele-Steeps due in February; brothers: Leroy, Bobby, and Danny Thiele; as well as many other nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Douglas is preceded in death by his wife, Debra, who passed away earlier this year, his parents, Fredrick and Emma Thiele, and nephew Stephen Vondracek.

A visitation for Douglas will take place at Essential Rock Church, 40 East Division St., Fond du Lac on Monday, November 20, 2017 from 4:00 to 6:00 pm. The celebration of life service for Douglas will immediately follow the visitation from 6:00 to 7:00 pm at the church. A meal gathering will follow the service in the church.

The family would like to thank Jayme at Aurora Hospital for keeping Douglas comfortable, and to Dr. Hanes as well as the rest of the staff of Aurora ICU for their care and concern for Douglas in his final days. In lieu of flowers, memorials will be used for funeral expenses.