Dr. Charles A. Thielman

Loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather and Friend, Charles A. Thielman, of Whiting, NJ, formerly of Riverside, NJ, died peacefully at his home November 11, 2024. Known to his family as “Charlie”, Charles was born September 24, 1940. Born and raised in Riverside, New Jersey, he was the dearest child of Kathryn (Salkowski) and Alios Thielman. Charles was a proud graduate of Riverside High School, Class of 1959, where he excelled as a dual-sport athlete, playing football and basketball with heart and determination.

Following his graduation, He went to American University, Washington, DC. He furthered his education at the Cleveland School of Podiatry. Upon graduating, Charles answered the call to serve his country enlisting in the Army. He practiced podiatry at Womack Army Hospital, Fort Bragg, NC treating his fellow soldiers coming back with injuries from the war.  He was dedicated  to alleviating the pain of veterans and civilians alike. After completing his service, Charles returned to his hometown and opened a podiatry practice in Riverside, where he cared for his community for over 30 years with a steady hand and a compassionate heart.

Upon retirement, Charles and his beloved wife, Joyce, embarked on a new adventure, relocating to South Carolina where they opened a charming bed and breakfast. It was here, amidst the southern blooms and hospitality, that Charles started working for Lowes in their garden center. Lowe’s recognized his natural ability and green thumb with  the opportunity to earn a Certificate as a Live Plant Nursery Specialist through Clemson University’s School of Horticulture.  He shared this knowledge and expertise for 20 years helping his customers bring their outdoor and indoor spaces to life. His fellow coworkers and customers were like family to him, friendships that he cherished.

Charles and Joyce shared a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure.Together, they built a legacy of warmth and care that will endure in the hearts of those who know them.

Charlie always welcomed you with a captivating smile, warm hug or a nice strong hand shake. He enjoyed the company and lives of family and friends. He spoke to you with meaning, love, and lessons.  Charles had many interests that brought him joy. He was a devoted Catholic, always digging deeper into his faith. Full of knowledge, always researching, listening to the radio and reading, he enjoyed listening to music and tried to keep up with the latest groups that his grandchildren enjoyed.

We will miss you every single day, Jesus blessed us all with you in our lives.

For now Adios till we meet again, enjoy being with Christian who left our lives too soon.

He is predeceased in death by his loving son Christian Thielman

He is survived by his wife Joyce of 30 years. His children, Douglas Thielman (Ginger) and Nadine Harvier (Joseph) and Christian Thielman(Donna);  and his extended family by marriage: Bobby, Lisa (Al), and Danny (Carol). He was the proud grandfather of Katelyn, Brooke, Colin (Diane), and Morgan (Nicholas), and cherished great-grandfather to Ian, Evan, Aiden, and Wesley.

The family invites all who were touched by Charles’ life to celebrate his remarkable 84 years on Saturday, November 23, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Sweeney Funeral Home, 337 Bridgeboro Street, Riverside, NJ 08075. A memorial service will follow at 12:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to  Tunnel to Towers in Charles’ honor as a reflection of his patriotism and giving spirit.