David Rudy Thiele, 67, of Rio Rancho, N.M., formerly of Lewis Run, passed away Saturday (May 10, 2025) after a lengthy illness, surrounded by family.

Born Nov. 6, 1957, in Bradford, he was a son of the late George and Betty (Sankner) Thiele. Dave was a 1975 graduate of Bradford Area High School and was an accomplished football player. He was chosen to participate in the Big 30 game in 1975.

On Feb. 12, 1980, in Olean, N.Y., he married his loving wife, Mary Ann (Pavlovich) Thiele, who survives.

Dave worked as a retail manager at the Bradford Tops and later at Home Depot in Painted Post, N.Y. He enjoyed trap shooting, fishing, hunting, trips to the casino, wearing Hawaiian shirts, drinking chocolate milkshakes and walking his dogs — Mitsy, Knuckles, Patches and Pookie — over the years. Spending time with his family was his greatest joy, especially his beloved grandchildren.

In addition to his loving wife of 45 years, Mary Ann, he is survived by his daughter, Beth (Steve) Eckert; his sonin- law, Eric Brandl, and grandchildren, Dr. Collin Brandl and Emilie Brandl, all of Rio Rancho; his sister, Celia (Bob) Boyle of Ashville, N.C.; his brother, Stephen (Beth) Thiele of Bradford; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Pamela (Petillon) Brandl.

A celebration of Gramps’ life will be held at a later date to be announced.

Local arrangements are under direction of Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc. Online condolences may be expressed at hollenbeckcahill.com.