Matthew Thiel

8-3-69 ~ 11-29-23

It is with heavy heart and extreme sadness that we announce the passing of Matthew Allen Thiel, 54, of Dinuba, CA, after a short but valiant battle with cancer.

Matthew was born to his adoring parents, Freddie & Netta (Spier) Thiel, on August 3, 1969, in Bad Kreuznach, Germany, where his father was stationed while serving in the United States Army. He spent his first two years in Germany, then the family returned home to Dinuba, CA, where he attended area schools, graduating from Dinuba High School in 1987.

After graduation he worked for several years alongside his uncles Bill, Clarence Jr. ("Pun") and Mark Spier in a variety of oilfield jobs throughout California. He was also a master welder by trade and built countless specialty trailers, amongst many other welding projects and career positions. He also acquired the family skill of painting and worked many side jobs with expertise. Matt spent the majority of his adult life in Yolo County, in the Woodland, Knights Landing and Esparto areas, relocating back to Dinuba in recent years.

In addition to many beloved family members, Matthew was preceded in death by grandparents Clarence Sr. & Mae Ruth Spier, and Raymond & Judy Thiel, all of Dinuba, CA. He is survived by his parents Freddie and Netta Thiel, of Selma, CA, children Dylan Thiel, Delaney Swanson (Nick), and granddaughter Sophia Mae Swanson, all of Woodland, CA, and sister Krista Thiel Dutcher, of Dinuba, CA, as well as many cherished family members and friends. He was a friend to many, and his quick wit will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Memorial Services are scheduled for 1 pm, on Friday, December 15, 2023, at Smith Mountain Cemetery, 42088 Road 100, Dinuba, CA 93618, with a celebration of life immediately following his burial at the First Southern Baptist Church, 1667 E. Golden Way, Dinuba, CA 93618. Dopkins Funeral Home of Dinuba is assisting the family with arrangements.