Richard Thele

Richard Thele, 62, lost his five-year battle with ALS on May 8, 2023. He was born on February 27, 1961, to Kenneth and Marlene Thele in Puyallup, WA.

In high school he played the trumpet and ran cross country track, graduated in the SHS class of 1980. He later worked as a pipefitter (Union 026) and especially loved working on the big ships like the USS John Stennis. Rick loved photography and videography and usually had several cameras with him most of the time. He enjoyed garage sales and was always looking for a “good deal”. The biggest thing that he will be remembered for was his sense of humor. He loved the corny jokes and giving the young nieces and nephews gag gifts.

He is survived by sisters Vikki Gigstead and Cindy Nuxoll, nieces Cadie Nuxoll, Melissa Gigstead and nephew, Tom Gigstead, Jr. (Holly). Great-nieces and great-nephews Rose, John, Kendyl and Mckenzie Gigstead. Preceded in death by his parents Kenneth and Marlene Thele.

Celebration of life is Sunday June 25, 2023 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at Little Skookum Community Hall, 3480 SE Lynch Rd, Shelton, WA.