William F Thiel

William F. “Bill” Thiel, 79, departed this life for the gates of Heaven on Friday, December 3rd surrounded by family.



Born in Schenectady on November 20, 1942, Bill was the son of the late William Francis and Josephine (LaVallee) Thiel.



A 1960 graduate of Schalmont High School, Bill started his career with the NYS Department of Transportation as an Engineering Aide and after 37 years of service he retired in 1999 as Civil Engineer. He worked in Highway Design and Construction in Region 1.



In his younger years, Bill loved to fish and hunt and he belonged to at pistol league at the Iroquois Rod and Gun Club where he was a life member. He had a passion for golf and was a member of Stadium Golf Club. He played in the “Loop” for over 40 years. Bill enjoyed his time with friends on the course and on the 19th hole after golf. He also enjoyed doing projects made out of old wine corks and stained glass.



Bill is survived by his significant other of over 25 years Margaret A. Lyons of Guilderland, his former wife Janet Nelarico of Rotterdam, his children, Audra L. Thiel of Glenville and Brian M. Thiel of Mohegan Lake, NY, grandchildren, Miranda L. VonLinden of Glenville and Taylor E. Thiel of Mohegan Lake, his niece and nephew, Lisa Towns and Rick Bromberg. Bill was also predeceased by his sister, Christine Enser.



A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Monday December 13th at 2 pm at Bond Funeral Home, Broadway & Guilderland Avenue, Schenectady, NY. A visitation will be held at the funeral Home from 1 to 2 pm prior to the service.



Interment in St Cyril’s Cemetery in Rotterdam, NY.



In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Bill’s memory to either the Schenectady ARC or to the Iroquois Rod and Gun Club.