David H. Thielke, age 94, passed away peacefully at home on October 9, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born in Coleman, Wisconsin on May 8, 1931, to Leonard and Elizabeth Thielke.

 

He graduated from Coleman High School in 1951. After graduating, David proudly served in the United States Army from 1952-1954.  He completed his Army basic training in Oahu, Hawaii before being stationed in Dillingen, Germany.  In 1954 he was united in marriage to his loving wife of 66 years, Adeline Kovnesky.  They went on to raise four children in Menomonee Falls.  

 

David devoted his life to hard work and doing every job with pride.  His passion was photography.  As a talented commercial photographer and owner of Murdoch Photographing Company, he captured countless community and business memories throughout the area. His robust collection includes many landmarks around the Milwaukee area.  In retirement he found a new enthusiasm in driving a school bus for Johnson Bus Company.  He continued this for twenty years until the age of 80, driving countless children, athletes, and senior citizens safely to their destinations.  He embraced knowing the children and families on a personal level.

 

David had a deep love for animals, especially birds and dogs.  He found joy in watching and feeding birds that gathered in the yard.  Many beloved dogs brought him companionship over the years.  Most importantly, he cherished time with his family.  David and his late wife Adeline taught their children and grandchildren the meaning of kindness, dedication, reliability, and a strong work ethic.  This example has continued to shape and inspire his children and grandchildren.  

 

David is survived by his four children: Jeff (Pam) Thielke of Germantown, Mark (Linda) Thielke of Menomonee Falls, Paul (Monica DeMuth) Thielke of Port Washington, and Michele Teschendorf of Slinger;  nine grandchildren:  Nicholas Thielke, Steven (Sarah) Thielke, Sierra (Derek) Milz, Cody (Kim) Falls, Jesse Thielke, Jordan (Laura) Teschendorf, Justin (Valerie Gonzales) Falls, Spencer & Sophie Thielke; eight great-grandchildren: Maclen, Kenzington, Novalee Milz, Eloise Teschendorf, and Olivia, Isabella, Lucas, and Claire Thielke; brother, Wayne Thielke; sister, Lois Henrichs; sister-in-law, Millie Thielke; and a host of other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Adeline, sister Corella Kautzer, brother Virgil Thielke, brothers-in-law Butch Henrichs and Melvin Kautzer and sister-in-law Arlene Thielke.   

 

The visitation for David will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025, at the Schmidt & Bartelt Funeral Home in Menomonee Falls from 9AM until the time of the funeral service at 10:30AM. Entombment with Military Honors will immediately follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the charity of the donor’s choice are appreciated.

 

The family would like to give special thanks to Horizon Hospice Service for their kindness and comfort, and especially to his devoted caregiver, Jissa, whose gentle care and compassion will always be remembered.