Ralph Joseph Thieman Jr.

Ralph Thieman Jr., 85, passed away peacefully in his home, Wednesday, January 17, 2018. He was born June 16, 1932 in Quincy, Illinois, to Ralph and Virginia (Kohl) Thieman. Ralph was a graduate of Quincy Notre Dame High School and the University of Illinois. He served in the Navy, 2 years active duty and 4 years in the reserves. He was active in the Boy Scouts of America and received the Silver Beaver Award. Ralph loved music and was a member of many chorale groups in past years. He was a member of The Big Orange Chorus. Ralph had a sense of adventure. He earned his pilot’s license in 1976. He and his wife, Norma, loved to travel, visiting over 12 countries. Next to his family, Ralph’s greatest passion was his business. Ralph and Norma purchased Florida Hardware Company in 1985, continuing a family tradition that started in 1881 when Ralph’s great grandfather opened a harness shop in Quincy, Illinois. Today, Florida Hardware Company is in its fifth generation of Thiemans.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Norma, their sons Rich, Don (Susan), Brian (Lupita); five grandchildren Steve (Trish), Kellea, Julie, Greg, Amelia; one great grandchild William. Also his brother John Thieman of Vienna, VA. Ralph was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Memorials can be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Family will receive friends at Hardage-Giddens Edgewood Chapel, 729 South Edgewood Ave, on Wednesday, January 24 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm, Deacon Jeff Burgess will hold a prayer service at 7:00pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 5752 Blanding Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32244, on Thursday, January 25 at 11:00am with Father Donald Sullivan officiating. Burial will be at 2:00 pm at Evergreen Cemetery, 4535 Main Street North. You may leave words of comfort and sympathy at www.HGRiversideFuneralHome.com . HARDAGE-GIDDENS, RIVERSIDE MEMORIAL PARK and FUNERAL HOME, 7242 Normandy Boulevard is serving the family.