I first met "Frau" Thickstun my first day of freshman year at Bloomington South. She was the sweetest, most grandmotherly, encouraging teacher who became a friend. I excelled in her class and skipped a year. She was my teacher, but also family

I worked with Shirley at Bloomington South.  She was the sweetest person.  She was gentle, kind and very thoughtful.  Shirley gave me a plant fairy and I still have it to this day...it makes me smile and think of her.  Peace be with you.

I was fortunate to have been a student of Mrs. Thickstun at Central Middle School. She taught me so much more than English and Lit. I have thought of her often through the years, still cherishing a book she once gave to me “The Man Nobody Knows”. 
I believe that without her guidance, my life would have taken a very different path, and not for the better.

Mrs. Thickstun was my German teacher in high school for 3 years (early 90s).  What a wonderful lady! She was always very kind to me, and I kept in touch with her through most of my college years -  I would call her occasionally. Her husband's father was great friends with my grandparents, so we had lots of things to talk about.  

She was such a sweetheart, with a good sense of humor, and a very loving way.  She was always there to listen - and a good teacher.  I will miss her.  When my own grandmother died, she helped me through it in a big way, and I will always remember her for that, too.  

I wish all of her family love and peace through this time.

Rest well, Frau Thickstun.  We will all miss you.

So sorry to learn of Shirleys adding.  She was always so friendly.  She will be missed,. Know it's a relief, but closing a chapter is not easy.
God bless you all.  Betsy

Shirley and her family had such a positive impact on my life.  I am so sorry for your loss.  

Frau Shirley Thickstun educated so many on so much:  life, relationships, love, sharing, empathy, joy, faith, perseverance, and … oh, yes … German.  She broadened my horizons far past the rural Indiana I had always known, and she opened my eyes to a whole new world.  She was the most encouraging, loving, supportive and thoughtful teacher I had ever had, or have had since.  She rescued me from the angst of my adolescence and gave me strategies for living a full and fulfilling life.  She inspired my love of the German language and culture, which became my passion and eventually, following in her footsteps, my career.  I loved her like a second mother, and I cherished our friendship.  I will miss her beautiful light in this world.


Frau has always held a special place in my heart and memories. It was joy to see and speak with her last year. Praying for the family during this difficult time. 

I am so heart broke to hear of the passing of your mother. She was and will always  be the one special love of my life. It is with heart felt love for your family that my family give  it's deepest condolences for your loss. She was a great influence in my life and I know that she will always be forever 💛 by me.  Love you always 
                     Harold kreinop

Shirley was a beautiful lady. Columbus was blessed to have her in our school system and community.  I will pray for you during this difficult time. God bless; Linda Kinsey

OBITUARY

Shirley Ann Thickstun

January 14, 1938 – December 14, 2020

Day & Deremiah-Frye Funeral Home

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