Deidra Ann Thieken

Deidra Ann Thieken, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, October 26, 2025. Born on February 27, 1954, in Hamilton, Ohio to Elmer and Maudie Lauer. Deidra lived a life defined by compassion, dedication, and joy.

She was married for 49 beautiful years to her high school sweetheart, Richard Thieken – a love story that inspired all who knew them. Together they raised four children and were later blessed with ten grandchildren, each of whom adored their Nana, whose warmth laughter and unconditional love filled every family gathering.

From an early age, Deidra’s energy and grace shone brightly. She began dancing at age three under Betty Sroufe, continuing through high school, and excelled as both a swimmer and gymnast. A talented and determined athlete, she earned numerous awards and was honored with induction into the Badin High School Hall of Fame in 2013.

Deidra’s compassion for others guided her into a lifelong career in nursing. She began as an LPN in 1975. Through dedication and hard work, earned her RN degree. Over the span of more than four decades — much of it spent as a critical care nurse and in the cardiac catheterization lab — she touched countless lives with her skill, empathy, and calm strength. She retired from the University of Cincinnati Hospital at age 65.

Outside of work, Deidra found joy in music, nature, puzzles, and birdwatching. She loved spending time outdoors and cherished every moment with her family and friends. Her gentle spirit, love of life, and unwavering kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

Deidra is survived by her husband of 49 years, Richard; her children, Katherine Thieken, Luke (Cindy) Thieken, Andrew Thieken and Lindsey (Josh) Sellers; her grandchildren, Sloan, Rowan, Presley, Blake, Jax, Brooks, Hayes, Mason, Carmen and Palmer; her sisters, Norma Eleton and Debbie Wagers; her sweet dog, Callie Rose; and her extended family and friends. Deidra was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Phillip Nunamaker and Tom Lauer; and her sisters, Nancy Murray and Joann Barsamian.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 3, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM at Brown Dawson Flick Funeral Home, 1350 Millville Avenue, Hamilton, Ohio 45013. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Ann Catholic Church, 3028 Pleasant Avenue, Hamilton, Ohio, on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at 10:30 AM with celebrant Fr. David Sunberg officiating.