Frank Everett Thieme Jr.

Colonel Frank E. Thieme Jr, USAF, Retired, died peacefully at the age of 75 after a long struggle with cancer and complications from pneumonia in Las Vegas, Nevada on August 12, 2016. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Marilyn F. Thieme; four children: Michael Thieme, William Thieme, James Thieme, and Rebeccah Graves; two siblings: Harry Thieme and Daniel Thieme; and nine grandchildren. Colonel Thieme was born on August 16, 1940 in Elizabeth, New Jersey to Frank Thieme Sr. and Margaret Thieme. He graduated from Newton High School in 1958. He attended the University of Miami as a member of the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), earning his bachelor’s degree in Management and a commission in the United States Air Force as a 2nd Lieutenant in 1962. He married the woman who became his life-long companion and partner, Marilyn, in November of 1962. Between 1963 and 1978, the couple welcomed their four children, first three boys, and finally, a daughter (the first girl born in Frank’s line in over 100 years). He served in Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia in the Vietnam war in 1966. After returning to the United States, he earned an MBA from the University of Miami, and eventually a Doctorate (Ed. D) from the University of Southern California in 1978. Colonel Thieme also taught statistics, economics, and mathematics courses at several universities, including the University of Maryland. His children remember him as an energetic, hard-working, and gregarious father who encouraged them to pursue their goals. Colonel Thieme always kept abreast of new technology and dedicated more than a decade in retirement to teaching senior citizens how to use computers in an organization called Senior Net. He was a generous contributor to many charities, including the Boy Scouts of America, The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, Boys Town, and numerous military veteran, and Native American charity organizations. He was a mystery buff, particularly fond of Sherlock Holmes. His friends and family will miss his infectious laugh, colorful sense of humor, and enduring spirit. Colonel Thieme will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery in a ceremony with full military honors at a later date. A Celebration of his life will be held on Tuesday, August 16th at the Palm Cheyenne Mortuary, 7400 West Cheyenne Avenue, Las Vegas, Nevada 89129, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Frank's life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Boys Town, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, or the Boy Scouts of America.