John "Will" William Thiele

John William Thiele passed away Friday January 10, 2025 at the age of 19. William was born to David Thiele and Gena Garrett Thiele in Seguin, Texas on November 4, 2005. Though William’s life was short to most standards, he lived it to the fullest. To know him, was to experience his sharp wit, his all-encompassing smile, and deep knowledge of Marvel. He loved his family, and his friends fiercely and completely. William spent his first 8 years living in Seguin and spending his time with his Grandparents in Smiley and Gonzales. The summer before he started 3rd grade, his family moved to New Braunfels where he lived his remaining years. William graduated from Canyon High School in May 2024. William’s time at Canyon High School was the highlight of his life. He loved being apart of the Cougar Football team, and woke up everyday ready to go to school to be a part of something bigger than himself. He was FOREVER RED.

William was born with multiple congenital heart defects that though limited his body it never limited his ability to love, laugh and live. He believed deeply in the connection of the human spirit and in some of the darkest times it was commented that his “Iron Will” was probably the only things keeping him alive. He was always able to talk about the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) or anything Legos.

William is survived by his parents David and Gena Thiele, his older brother Garrett Thiele. His Grandparents, Kathryn (Katie) Garrett, Mildred and Kermit Thiele. Dear friends (family), Matthew, Anna and Thomas White. William leaves Aunts, Uncles and Cousins that he deeply loved. He was preceded in death by his Grandfather Alfred (Al) William Garrett, half brother Jonathan Thiele, uncles James Thiele and Randolph “Todd” Garrett.

Visitation will occur Saturday, January 18, 2025 from 2:00PM to 3:00PM at Gruene United Methodist Church, (2629 E. Common Street, New Braunfels, Texas 78130) Celebration of Life Ceremony will follow immediately after at 3:00 PM at Gruene United Methodist Church, with reception following the service at Gruene United Methodist. The family will have a small graveside service for Will prior to the Visitation and Celebration of Life Ceremony, Saturday January 18, 2025 at 10:00AM at Bundick Cemetery, Smiley Texas. The family encourages attendees to wear Red, and/or anything Marvel to celebrate Will’s passions.

William had an extensive care team over his life time. The family would like to acknowledge the nurses, techs, doctors, and therapist that helped him battle through all the times when his body was weakened. The family would like to extend a sincere appreciation for the devotion and guidance provided by Dr. David Bush and Nurse Estee Lopez and his physical therapist Kate Obermiller. They all became family to him.

In lieu of flowers, the family is collecting donations of Lego sets to share with children that are in the hospital, and or donations to Steve’s Pantry @ Gruene United Methodist (Gruene Food Ministries) https://grueneumc.churchcenter.com/giving