Robert J. “Bob” Thoele (93) of Teutopolis

In loving memory of Robert Thoele, a cherished member of our community, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2024. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am Thursday, March 7, 2024 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Teutopolis with burial in St. Francis Cemetery with military rites. Visitation will be held from 9:00 am to the time of service, Thursday at the church in St. Clare Hall. Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or to the charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences may be expressed by clicking here.

Robert was born at home on April 7, 1930, to Allie and Bertha (Westendorf) Thoele, and grew up in Teutopolis. He married Helen Stalling on August 20, 1955 and she preceded him in death on June 6, 2011. Robert served in the Navy during the Korean War, and he was a proud member of the American Legion. Beyond his military service, Robert was an active participant in various organizations that served his community. He was a valued member of the Knights of Columbus and was further involved in the Township Board and the Teutopolis School Board.

In addition to his community involvement, Robert was a passionate advocate for agriculture, proudly representing the Effingham Pork Producers and contributing to the vitality of the farming community. He found joy in his hobbies, whether it was crafting beautiful woodwork, golfing, embarking on rabbit and coyote hunts, or assisting in the coordination of the Knights of Columbus tractor pulls. His enthusiasm for CB radio communication earned him the moniker "The King of Spades” and he was one of the founding member of ‘the round table’ at Kountry Kitchen. Bob and Helen always found time for leisure; enjoying camping, square dancing, visiting Navy colleagues, participating in tractor pulls and vacationing with friends. 

Robert will be deeply missed by his beloved family, three sons, Tim (Deb), Doug (Paula) and Rod (Deb) all of Teutopolis; four daughters, Lisa (Jerry) Heuerman of Teutopolis, Deb (Dale) Ruholl of Teutopolis, Karla (Dan) Repking of Effingham, Brenda (Paul) Speltz of Rollingstone, MN; one sister, Rosemary (Thoele) Brumleve of Teutopolis; 22 grandchildren; 54 great grandchildren.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents; wife; sisters; Betty (Thoele) Buenker, Patsy (Thoele) Siddens, and brothers; Patrick Thoele and Tom Thoele.