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

Jim was born on October 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 Reserves.

On November 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 Corporation — 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 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 Marjorie of 56 years; his children Bradley (Jean) Thiel of West Bend and Robyn (Ryan) Wilson of Fraser, Colorado; his grandchildren Morgan and Michael Thiel from West Bend; his siblings Bonnie (Jim) Andrews, and Don (Linda) Thiel of Fort Myers, Florida, and Paul (Leslie) Toepher of Grafton; his mother-in-law Verlee Williams of Muscatine, Iowa, and brother and sister-in-laws Virginia and Steve Frye and David Williams of Muscatine, Iowa, Dr. Gary and Slyvia Cavanaugh of Stockton, California, John Williams (Gina Anderson) of Terrebone, Oregon, along with many other cherished relatives and friends.

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

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, August 22, at 12:00 p.m. at Open Door Bible Church in Port Washington, officiated by Pastor Sid Litke. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Random Lake Historical Society, the Random Lake Fire Department, the 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.