Boyd Allen Thiel, age 72, of Chamberlain, South Dakota, passed away on December 14, 2025, in Mitchell, South Dakota, after a courageous and determined battle with cancer that spanned nearly eight years.

Boyd was born on September 24, 1953, in Huron, South Dakota, to Clarence and Pearl Thiel. He grew up with strong Midwestern values that shaped his work ethic, humor, and deep loyalty to family and friends throughout his life.

Boyd proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam era, an experience that remained an important part of who he was. Following his military service, he returned to Chamberlain, where he built both a life and a legacy.

He was the owner and operator of Thiel's Collision Center, Inc., which he proudly ran alongside his wife, Ann. Together, they built the business with integrity, dedication, and a commitment to treating people right. Boyd was known not only for his skill and work ethic, but also for his fairness and generosity—qualities that earned him lasting respect from customers, employees, and friends throughout the community.

Boyd married the love of his life, Ann, on August 23, 1975. She preceded him in death last year, and their partnership—both in life and in business—remained central to who Boyd was.

A man of many passions, Boyd was deeply involved in the classic car community and served for many years as President of the Lakers Car Club in the Chamberlain/Oacoma area. Among all classic cars, Boyd had a special and enduring love for GTOs, which held a unique place in his heart. He took great pride in their history, performance, and craftsmanship, and few things brought him more joy than talking cars, working on them, or sharing that passion with others. Boyd was also an avid pool player and competed in a central South Dakota pool league for many years, forming lasting friendships along the way.

Above all else, Boyd will be remembered as a philanthropist, a tireless worker, a fighter, and a man with a sharp sense of humor. He was passionate about the things he cared for, generous with his time and resources, and deeply loved by those who knew him. His long and courageous fight with cancer was marked by strength, resilience, and determination—qualities that defined him long before his illness.

Boyd is survived by his daughter, Taya (Jason) Swanson; his grandchildren, Caleb and Kylie Swanson; his son, Travis Thiel; his brother, Paul Thiel; and his sister, Jackie Washechek. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Pearl Thiel, and by his beloved wife, Ann.

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m., Monday, December 22, 2025 at St. James Catholic Church in Chamberlain. Visitation will begin Sunday at 3:00 p.m. with a scripture service at 5:00 p.m. at St. James Catholic Church in Chamberlain.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Fishing for a Cure (www.fishingforacure605.com).

Boyd faced life—and illness—with grit, humor, and unwavering resolve, and his courage throughout his long fight will remain an enduring example to all who knew and loved him.