William J. Thies, 89, of Perrysburg reunited with his wife, Katherine on Tuesday morning, March 17, 2026, surrounded by love and family. He was born in the Town of Pomfret on November 13, 1936, the son of Kenneth and N. Vivian (Reese) Thies.
William honorably served his country with the United States Army Reserve National Guard as a Staff Sergeant. He married the former Katherine L. Noble in Fredonia on July 26, 1958. After 67 years of sharing their lives, Katherine passed away at home with Bill by her side on December 3, 2025. William and Katherine enjoyed family outings and were a constant presence for their four children and later for their grandchildren.
Bill retired from the former J.N. Adam Developmental Center; he was the plant superintendent for the hospital. His state employment spanned more than 35 years. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, and the Buffalo Bills. Bill was a Freemason at the Silver Lodge #757. He was a past Master and received a 60-year service award in 2025. He was a devoted husband and father.
Survivors include four children, Richard (Marcia) Thies of Falconer, Jane (Daniel) Sprague of Perrysburg, Cheryl (Stephen) Crouse of South Dayton and Emily (Erik Buskist) Mongillo of Springville; grandchildren, Andrew, Matthew and John Thies, Melissa (Alex Hedges) and Daniel (Michele) Sprague, Jr., Sheila and Sarah (Jacob Kotar) Crouse, and Samuel Mongillo; great-grandchildren, Michaela Sprague, Kylee Sprague, Thomas and Forest Thies; and several nieces and nephews. William was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; two brothers, Kenneth Thies, Jr. and R. Jacob Thies; and a sister, Mary Gehling.
Per Bill's wishes, a private family burial was held at the Webster Road Cemetery in Pomfret, where Bill was laid to rest next to his beloved Katherine. Pastor Michael Nace officiated.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to a local charity of one's choice.
The family at this time would like to thank all the friends, family, and medical staff that have shown love, support and prayers to them over the recent months.
Arrangements are by the Schindler Funeral Home, 44 Center Street in Gowanda.
