John Thielmann

 John Thielmann passed away in Milwaukee on June 2, 2024 at age 71, surrounded by loving family including his special friend Linda.  He was born August 20, 1952 and grew up in the town of Granville.   After graduating James Madison HS in Milwaukee, he earned a degree in History from College of Racine/Dominican College and was a Fraternity and choir member. A natural with people, he became a sales rep for a liquor distributor. His expertise in wine and beer served him well later in his many years working part time for Otto’s Liquor in Elm Grove. 

 John entered the seminary in St Paul MN and attained a Master of Divinity at Sacred Heart Seminary in Franklin. While priesthood wasn’t in his future John pursued a career as a lay Catholic Chaplain in several hospitals and became Liturgy Director at St. Killian’s in Hartford, WI. 

Deciding to become a teacher, John began as a substitute for MPS on an emergency permit program and took more education classes at Cardinal Stritch College earning his teaching credentials.  He taught often at Morgandale and most recently at Milwaukee’s German Immersion school where he was truly loved by students and staff.  He was called “Herr Thielmann” and his students were always thrilled to have him as a substitute. For gym class that meant playing with the beloved parachute!   For class work, John always found a way to connect and excite the kids for their assignments! He’ d say it was because he was truly a kid at heart himself.  He was also on the board of MSTA. A true Union activist. 

John’s activities included Civil War reenacting with group 2^nd WI Co K, Sons of Union Veterans and West Side Soldiers Aide Society. He traveled to Gettysburg and other battle sites, and acquired a collection of replicas of Civil War clothing and personal care items . He would teach at festivals, especially German Fest, and reenactment sites, explaining the life of the Civil War soldier.

John’s passion for baseball included umpiring youth baseball for over 20 years. He traveled Southeastern WI and knew every little nook and cranny park that held a baseball game! He advised actors about umpiring for the movie “Mr. 3000” filmed in Milwaukee and appeared in the film calling the star “out” at first base. 

John researched family history and located relatives in Ruber, Germany, visiting them twice. Also was a member of Irish Fest choir. John was quite adept at singing Irish and German melodies.

John enjoyed working as an usher for his beloved Brewers at Am Fam Field.   

John enjoyed the last two years at Forest Ridge Senior Living Community and was beloved by many of the residents. A favorite memory of him is of St Patrick’s day when he sang his whole list of Irish folk songs.

John was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Beatrice Thielmann and infant sister Ellen Sue.

He is survived by special friend Linda Hanig; siblings Connie Phillips (Al), Bill Thielmann (Cris), Mary Redlinger, Bob Thielmann (Karla), Helene Rondorf (Duane) and Jim Thielmann; 13 nieces and nephews and 11 grand nieces and nephews; many cousins and other family and friends. 

A celebration of John’s life will be held Thursday, June 20, 2024 at Forest Ridge Senior Community’s Chapel, 11077 W Forest Home Ave, Hales Corners WI, 4 PM-7 PM, prayer service at 6:30. Wearing casual, and especially Brewer’s themed clothing, is encouraged. John will be interred at St Killian’s cemetery in Hartford, WI at a future date.

In lieu of flowers please contribute toward a memorial.