Obituary of Russell Vernon Thiel

Of Caro, age 88, died Tuesday, November 22, 2011 at Covenant Harrison in Saginaw. Cremation has taken place. The memorial service will take place, 1:00 pm, Wednesday, November 30, 2011, at the Martin Funeral Home in Vassar. Pastor David Burkett will officiate. Family will receive friends at the Martin Funeral Home on Wednesday, from 12:00 noon until time of service at 1:00 pm. Memorial donations may be considered to the American Cancer Society. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. Russell was born September 24, 1923, in Flint, Michigan, the son of Anthony and Grace (Ives) Thiel. Russell and Betty Jane Morris were united in marriage June 5, 1948. Russell proudly served his country in the United States Navy, during World War II. He worked for Buick for 33 years, before retiring in 1980. He was a member of the UAW #599. Russell enjoyed spending time with his family, traveling and camping. He was active in a variety of sports, including boxing, football and golf. Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 63 years, Betty Jane; four children, Pam and husband, Russ Radke, Debbie and husband, Ray Wruble, Jill and husband, John Carr and Len and wife, Rae Thiel; 15 grandchildren; many great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, grandson, Robert Hascall; granddaughter, Andrea Wruble; great grandson, Thomas Watson; and brother, Duane Thiel.