Keith Karl Thiede, 56, passed away on October 2, 2008 at the Pittsburgh Veterans Hospital after battling his illness for over a year.
He was born in Milwaukee WI on June 16, 1952 where he was raised until serving his country. At the age of 18, he served his country in the Vietnam War for three years under the Air Force. Through this time served and his previous experience in an auto parts store and other part time handyman jobs, he wanted to pursue a future of fixing machinery. He
His life was full of following those dreams. He worked in the oil fields in Texas and Louisiana. He returned to Milwaukee in 1990 to start own business making gaskets. He loved working with his customers and challenging his staff to create the perfect gasket to fix whatever was broken.
He continued to run his business from a distance and moved his customer service center to Naples, FL in 1995 so that he could be closer to his mom and begin to enjoy the weather that allowed him to be outside to do what he loved. He was very athletic and took advantage of being outside enjoying it.
He is survived by his mother, Vera Wesolowski of Fort Myers Florida, his Fiancé Jean of Naples Florida, his two sisters, Stacie and Verallyn, and his niece and nephews of Wisconsin. Also, remembered are his close relatives and many friends. He will be missed.
This picture was taken on a Ski Trip to Fernie, Canada in February of 2004. The trip didn’t start out as well as we would have liked. But, we made the most of it and made it into an adventure. We got stuck in some very tough spots such as trees, mogles, and some pretty vertical spots. It was just another adventure of pretending not to fear that which we do not know. I love you Baby!
It’s great that they have posted a memorial for Keith. The picture is fitting for all to remember him by. From what I have heard Keith tried making life an adventure and without doubt he’s still at it. It’s only a shame he isn’t doing here…..RIP
Keith lived his life to the fullest doing the things he loved to do golfing at every opportunity, every spare moment he spent on the golf course with his golf buddies was truly loved by him. He also loved to ski which shows on the picture that was submitted. We all loved Keith in our own way and he will be missed by all. He suffered for many years with his liver disease so any donations are very much appreciated through the liverdonation.org and send notice of donation to: Vera Wesolowski @ 2263 Carnaby Court Lehigh Acres, FL 33971
He will be with us always in our memories of him we all love you Keith.
Keith always resounded with an energy that drove his high profile personality. The passion he gave to all his endeavors made being around him fun and exciting. I reflect on the countless times he gave life to whatever he was focused on. When he found golf the two of us decided to go out in late fall. As the rain and cold increased I found myself needing to call it a day at nine holes, but Keith true to his determination finished all eighteen in the freezing rain. He even shot a pretty good round. The times we shared will continue to fill my life with happiness and hope. His friendship and energy will be there through all the trails life has for me and the ones I love.
I can only add the amazing love and heartfelt focus Jean gave to Keith; her time with him is a reflection of the love Keith felt for her, his best friend.