Barbara Jean Thiel

Barbara Spoerl Thiel, 91, passed away on July 30, 2024 at Touchmark Senior Living. She was born in Appleton on February 3, 1933 to Mabel (Fox) and George Spoerl. 

Barbara attended St. Joseph School, graduated from Appleton High School in 1951and attended Northwestern University. In high school Barb developed an interest in theatre which she pursued for a number of years being one of the founding members of Attic Theatre in Appleton. Through the years she acted and worked backstage on a number of productions along with serving on the board of governors.

Barb also had a lifelong love for horses. She owned a number of American Saddlebred horses and was an active competitor riding in American Saddlebred shows.

In 1954, Barb married E. Gerald (Jerry) Thiel. They had 2 children, Martin Thiel and Jennifer (Thiel) Bogenschutz.

Barb loved her grandchildren and especially enjoyed sharing her love for horses and animals with them. She and Jerry also enjoyed watching their participation in sports and school activities.

Barb is survived by her son Marty (Brenda) Thiel and their daughters Macaire (Chase) Hulderman and Millaine (Josh) Finch and daughter Jennifer (Mike) Bogenschutz and their children Elizabeth Specht and Brad Bogenschutz (fiancé Sarah Dworak). Four very special great grandchildren survive her as well: Katherine, Henry and John Specht and Graham Hulderman.

She was preceded in death by her husband Jerry, her parents, sisters Mary Spoerl, Bernette Hurley and Mary Lou Young, brothers Thomas and Vincent Spoerl.

A private family memorial service will be held. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Barbara's memory to Attic Theatre or the Fox Valley Humane Association. Interment for Barb is at Riverside Cemetery in Appleton.

The family would like to recognize the exceptional care from Shirley, Kathy and ALL of the staff that supports the Claremont wing at Touchmark and the St. Croix Hospice team.