Ted Lee Thimens' Obituary
DECATUR — Our beloved Ted Lee Thimens, 75, of Decatur, passed away on Aug. 18, 2019 in his home.
Ted was born in Johnson City, Tennessee to Robert and Mary Thimens on Feb. 23, 1944. His father’s work with oil refineries led their family to live in many places, including Venezuela, before they settled in Decatur in 1954. Ted earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He graduated from Eisenhower High School in 1962.
After proudly serving in the United States Marine Corps in Vietnam, Ted returned to Decatur and received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1970 from Millikin University. Ted was a talented musician, artist, photographer, and played tenor saxophone in the Millikin University Jazz Band. Ted was passionate about reading, music, and painting. He will be remembered for often engaging in meaningful conversation.
Ted married Vicki Nyman in 1975 then was blessed with three children — Todd, Jennifer and Skylar — and was a proud grandfather to grandchildren Grant and Brooke. Like his father, Ted retired from Caterpillar after more than 35 years serving in various roles and traveling internationally.
Ted is survived by his former spouse Vicki Thimens of Colorado Springs, CO; sons Todd Lee Thimens of Colorado Springs, CO and Robert Skylar (Alexandra Smith) Thimens of Fort Collins, CO; daughter Jennifer Lee (Tony) Gawenda of Lisle, IL; grandchildren Grant and Brooke Gawenda of Lisle, IL; brother Charles Thimens of Findlay, IL; and sister Patricia Norkunas of Bella Vista, AR. Ted is preceded in death by his parents Robert and Mary Thimens of Findlay, IL.
A celebration of Ted’s life will be held on Oct. 5 at Doherty’s, 242 E. William St., Decatur, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. with live music from Ted’s longtime friends — local jazz band The Hip Replacements with members of Black and White.
In Ted’s memory, the family suggests sending contributions to the Illinois Special Olympics by visiting http:/give.specialolympics.orgageontributellinois in honor of his oldest son.
Ted was loved by many and will be greatly missed.
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