Jean Thiel

Jean (Meiers) Thiel, beloved wife of Greg Thiel, dear friend of Janice Summers, and close friend of dozens of others, passed away on August 12th due to a heart condition. She was born in Appleton on March 7, 1954 to Joan and Chet Meiers. After graduating from Xavier High School in 1972 she received a degree in early childhood education from UW - Stevens Point in 1976.

After graduation she got a job in Milwaukee working with young children who had special needs. She loved her job and loved living in Milwaukee but after a few years had to leave both because of health issues.

She returned to Appleton and continued to volunteer with young children who.

brought so much joy to her. She met Greg Thiel at a party and was impressed with his sense of humor. He was impressed with her smile. They married on June 7, 1997.

Jean and Greg would meet regularly with friends. Sometimes as often as three times a day. Jean and Greg enjoyed sight-seeing almost every day and as they traveled, they could not believe how much beauty God had given them, especially in wildlife and still life. Trees and birds were their favorite things on earth. Anything either above or below the earth were very important things for Jean and Greg to worship daily. Jean loved collecting dolls, and anything fit for them. Writing poems and visiting the library were favorite pastimes. Anywhere Jean went she kept the place alive with her smiles, giggles and laughter. Her many friends and relatives will miss her infectious smile and laugh. Jean used her creativity to write poetry and annually wrote a poem to kick off the Packer’s season.

Her parents and older sister Betty proceeded her in death.

Her husband Greg and brother Steve Meiers survive her along with other relatives and friends.

A gathering in celebration of her life will be held at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior Street in Appleton on Saturday August 24, 2024 from 3:00 to 5:00 PM. There will be a time to share memories of Jean at 5:00 PM at the funeral home. Interment will be at St. Joseph Cemetery of Appleton at a later date.