Stetson Keith Thele passed away peacefully at home on December 20, 2024, at the tender age of 7. Born on November 3, 2017, at Southeast Hospital in Cape Girardeau, he was welcomed into the world by his loving parents, Jake Thele and Chandra Lincoln. From the moment he arrived, it became evident that he would be the strongest little man in their lives and in the lives of many others who had the privilege of knowing him. Stetson was a joyful first grader at Woodland R-4 Elementary, where he shared a special bond with his best friend, Lucas.
An embodiment of childhood spirit, Stetson was all boy! He thrived on adventures, whether it was playing in the mud, running, climbing, or racing RC cars with his dad. His inquisitive nature led him on countless exploration hikes, always eager to discover the wonders around him. Music brought him joy; he was always singing and dancing to his favorite songs and enjoyed strumming the guitar alongside his dad, uncle and grandma.
Stetson's admiration for the Hulk mirrored his own character. He exhibited remarkable strength, bravery, and kindness, facing life's challenges with unwavering faith. Despite the pain and trials that came his way, Stetson remained on the bright side, choosing to focus on the positive and inspire those around him. His legacy of courage and love will forever be cherished by all who knew him.
Survivors include his parents: Jake Thele and Chandra Lincoln; sister: Adalyne Thele; grandparents: Keith and Shannon Lincoln, Andrew and Leanne Thele, Misty and Jerry Stevens; great grandparents: Patricia and Gary Shrum, Kenneth and Debra Thele, Rhonda and Terry Massa; great great grandmothers: Connie Rosenthal and JoAnn Shrum; aunts and uncles: Dalton and Sara McCormick, Shayla and Garrett Crites, Kaiden Kilhaffner, Jordan (Grace Rodriguez) Thele, and Madison Stevens.
He was preceded in death by great grandparents: Randy Walker, Ralph and Doris Lincoln; great great grandpa: Kenny “Big Wigger”; great great aunts and uncles: Jackie and Eddie Long, Dean and Milton Lincoln; cousins: Taylor Arnzen and Harry Thele.
Pallbearers will be Dalton McCormick, Kaiden Kilhaffner, Jordan King, Derek Garland, Steven Green and Isiaha Long.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 26, 2024, from 1:00 to 6:00 pm, at the First Baptist Family Life Center in Marble Hill.
Private Funeral Services will be held Friday, December 27, 2024. Bro. Stevie Jordan will officiate. He will be laid to rest at Plainview Cemetery.
The family would like to express a great appreciation to Journey Hospice, Siteman Cancer Center, Friends with Kids with Cancer Organization and Capital Sand Proppants, for helping Stetson and his family throughout this journey.
Stetson showed a community how to stay strong throughout the toughest trials. We should all remember his quote: “Get Up and Don’t Give Up.”