Arlie J. Thayer

Arlie J. Thayer, age 88, beloved husband of Judy Fulton for seven years and the late Janet Thayer for 59 years. Loving father of John (Leila) Thayer, Margo (Steve) Powell, Tom (Haeyung) Thayer, Dan (Caitlin) Thayer, and Susanna (Jeff) Onak. Cherished grandfather of Kevin, Michael, Connor (Adesuwa), Alexander, Henry, Jackson, and Trevor. Remembered fondly by his bonus family, including Tom Fulton, Dave Fulton, Don Fulton, and their families.

Arlie was born on April 12, 1937, in Kearney, Nebraska, to Fred and Grace Thayer. Growing up on a rural farm and attending a one-room schoolhouse, he graduated from Elm Creek High School, then earned his degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Nebraska. He devoted 38 years of his professional life to Panduit Corporation, where, as a beloved co-worker, he rose from engineer to Vice President of Corporate Quality Assurance.

Arlie had a kind and reliable spirit and was deeply devoted to the people around him, always showing a great interest and support in their lives and pursuits. He enjoyed engaging with mechanical things– bicycles, tractors, cars, target shooting with old-fashioned "muzzleloaders", and working on projects in his woodshop. In his later years, Arlie found deep fulfillment in studying and embracing his Christian faith.

The family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at Parkview Christian Church Chapel, 11100 Orland Parkway, Orland Park, IL from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. A Service to Celebrate Arlie’s life will follow at 1:00 p.m. Park in the EAST lot to Enter. Go to the Chapel on the 2nd floor.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Alzheimer’s Association, 8430 Bryn Mawr, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60631 (alz.org) CLICK HERE to donate online or Autism Society, 6110 Executive Blvd., Suite 305, Rockville, MD 20852 (autismsociety.org) CLICK HERE to donate online are appreciated.

Arlie's kindness, wisdom, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy lives on in the many lives he touched. Condolences may be shared at colonialchapel.com or by calling 708-532-5400.