SPARTA – Robert H. Thien, Jr, 77, formerly of Steeleville, IL, died peacefully with family around him on Monday, November 29, 2021, at Cedarhurst of Sparta, Sparta, IL.

Robert was born February 29, 1944, at DePaul Hospital in St. Louis, MO, to Robert H. Thien, Sr. and Laura Junker. Robert married JoAnn Rakowski Trone on September 12, 1964, in Long Beach, CA. He always lovingly referred to her as "Angel," she survives. Robert was a welder by trade and served in the United States Navy from 1961-1965, during which he was a machinist on the USS Benner and trained to be a "frogman" or underwater diver. This training allowed him to become a member of the O'Fallon Search and Recovery team for a number of years. He was also a volunteer firefighter. Later he relocated his family to Steeleville, IL, and worked as a welder for Captain Mine. Robert was a punctual and hardworking man who most enjoyed family gatherings and hunting with his friends. He always loved a good story, loved to laugh, and enjoyed a morning cup of coffee outside in the sunshine, weather permitting, of course.

Robert is survived by his daughters: Therese Thien, Elizabeth (Jeffery) Reich, Margo (the late Douglass) Block, Erin Thien, Rebecca (Mark) Byrd, grandsons: Austin (Taylor) Block, Matthew Reich, George Reich, Brennen Thien, nephews, and nieces.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents, brother Fred Thien and sister Kathy (James) Allen.

Robert's wishes were for cremation. Memorial services will be held at 7:00 pm, Friday, December 3, 2021, at Wilson's Funeral Home, Steeleville, with visitation from 5-7 pm. Memorials may be given to the Donor's choice. To sign the guestbook, visit www.wilsonsfuneralhome.net . Due to executive orders, current COVID guidelines will be followed.