Carol Thiel

Carol Ann Thiel, age 78, of Colby, Kansas, passed away on May 9, 2024. She was born on September 21, 1945, to Robert and Esther Imhof in Goodland, Kansas.

Carol was a devoted wife to Dale Thiel who she married February 3, 1968, at the Brewster Methodist Church. She was a loving mother to her children: Karen Mengel married to Tylon Mengel, and Jess Thiel married to Anita Barker Thiel. She was also a cherished sister to Doris Johnson and Ray Imhof. As well as a niece to Minnie Belle Imhof Jones. Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren: Brianna Fox, Taylor Stoll, Braden Thummel, and Teigan Thummel, as well as five great-grandchildren whom she loved dearly. Carol and Linda Garrett were lifetime best friends, sharing countless memories and joys throughout their lives.

Carol attended Brewster High School where she graduated in 1963. She furthered her education by obtaining her undergraduate degree while attending Kansas State University in1968. She then received her Masters in Special Education at Fort Hays State University in 1983.

Carol was an active member of the Colby Methodist Church, where she found great solace and community. She spent her career as a gifted teacher at the Northwest Kansas Educational Service Center before retiring. Carol was known for her influential role in the community, serving as a Sunday School Teacher, 4-H leader, and 4-H judge for clothing and sewing in various counties. She also contributed her time and expertise as a board member at Prairie Museum of Art & History.

One of Carol's passions was teaching; she particularly enjoyed teaching her children and grandchildren how to cook and sew. Her dedication to education and nurturing the next generation extended beyond her professional life into her personal interests.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Esther Imhof, her brother-in-law Alvin Johnson, sister-in-law Janice Imhof, and brother Loyde Imhof.

Carol will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for her family and friends. Her impact on those around her will continue to resonate for years to come.

A funeral service to celebrate Carol's life will be held at 10:00 am Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at the Colby United Methodist Church in Colby Kansas, with burial in Beulah Cemetery, Colby. Memorials may be made to the Colby UMC or Prairie Museum of Art & History and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com