Debra D. Thiele, 66, passed away on March 11, 2025 in her home in Roanoke, Ind. following a long illness.

Born on January 20 in Pomona, Calif., she was the daughter of Eugene and Marilyn (née Adams) Vardaman. As a child, she moved to Fort Wayne, where she became a loving big sister to Dianna and Dorenna.

A graduate of Homestead High School in 1977, Debra spent nearly 30 years working in administrative roles at Phelps Dodge, which later became Rea Wire.

In 1978, she married Daniel Mauricio, and together they welcomed their children, Anthony and Ashley. Though that marriage came to an end, she remained a devoted mother, creating countless memories with her children — some of which they still talk about 35 years later, like their legendary cross-country road trip to California in a black '89 Trans Am (AKA the "Divorce Mobile").

In 2001, she married Gregory Thiele, her loving partner in life and adventure. Together, they enjoyed live music, travel, and their favorite local spots, Cebollas and Casa's. It wasn't just the food they cherished, but the friendships they formed with the staff and fellow regulars. These connections held great meaning for both of them and taught their children the value of building relationships and community with those around us.

Debra's love for travel took her to Michigan, Maine, Florida, and Hawaii, among many other places. In January, she enjoyed a trip to Mexico with her children and grandchildren. While everyone else came home exhausted, she was already planning her next getaway.

She will be remembered for her no-nonsense drive and get-it-done attitude, sage advice, willingness to always lend an ear, and her genuine acceptance of others. She had a unique way of making everyone feel comfortable enough to let their guards down and simply be themselves in her presence.

She is survived by her children, Anthony (Katy) Mauricio and Ashley (Mike) Mauricio; her mother, Marilyn Vardaman; her sisters, Dianna Keller and Dorenna (Mike) Gospodarek; her beloved grandchildren, Emmalynn, Sebastian, and Leo (who always knew that Grandma Debbie was on their side when their parents made them mad); father-in-law Sam Thiele;  brothers-in-law Jeff (Lori) Thiele, Todd (Victoria) Schneck; and sister-in-law Kim (Andy) Uhl. She also leaves behind several nieces and nephews, along with her nearly lifelong best friend, Di Ludwig – who could share a story or two about their endless shenanigans together. She was preceded in death by her husband Greg, father Eugene, and her grandparents.

Deb never sought recognition for her acts of kindness; she gave selflessly because it was simply the right thing to do. In her memory, her family invites others to carry forward her spirit by performing a quiet act of kindness for someone in need. They also ask that those attending her service wear her favorite color, purple, and raise a toast with a margarita on the rocks (no salt) in her honor.