Robert J. Thielman Sr.

Robert J. Thielman Sr, 76, of Southington, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, July 29, 2022 from complications related to Agent Orange exposure. He had been the loving husband of Mary Jean (Politowski) Thielman for nearly 45 years.

Robert was born on March 4, 1946 to the late Henry and Emma (Cummack) Thielman. He was a graduate of Wilcox Technical High School and a lifelong Southington resident.

Robert proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and as a member of the Connecticut National Guard. He was assigned as a Combat Engineer with the 26^th Engineer Battalion, Americal Division in Chu Lai Vietnam from 1967 to 1968. Following the war, he continued his military service as a Sergeant in the 143^rd Military Police Company and 2/102^nd Infantry Battalion. He was a distinguished marksman, helping to win the 1982 FORSCOM Commander’s Championship as part of the Connecticut Army National Guard Combat Pistol team. After leaving the military Bob continued to serve his community as an EMT and volunteer Firefighter with the Company 2 Southington Fire Department. He worked for many years as a home remodeler and became a talented chef, using his skills to routinely help friends, family, and those in need. An avid painter and sculptor, he enjoyed creating many different unique things, including his recently completed 1927 Ford Model T Roadster and several pieces of art, which were displayed in the New Britain Museum of Art. Bob’s life was full of humor and laughter. Friends described him as the most unique, independent, and generous human they have ever had the pleasure to know and love. He will always be remembered for the many smiles and selfless contributions that he gave to those around him.

In addition to his wife Mary, Bob is survived by his daughter, Joann and her husband Ray Chicoski. Sons, Robert Thielman Jr. and Randy Thielman, and grandchildren, including Jordan, Raymond and Connar Chicoski. He is also survived by his brother, Gene Thielman, sister, Caroline “Midge” Frazier and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by 3 brothers, Warren, Franklin and James Thielman and his sister, Marcella Frazier.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s memory may be made to the Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation, Inc, 103 Vision Way, Bloomfield, CT 06002.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be scheduled for a future date. Burial at Oak Hill Cemetery will be private. Plantsville Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling the arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.plantsvillefuneralhome.com.