Warren August Theis

Warren August Theis, 85, of Huddleston, Virginia, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, May 29, 2026, with his beloved wife by his side. Born in San Diego, California, on March 23, 1941, he was the son of the late Daniel August Theis and Henriett Warren Theis. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Michael Eric Theis, and his sister, Deanna Darlene Foster.

Warren was dedicated to a distinguished career in engineering and public service. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from San Diego State College and a Master of Science degree in Engineering from the University of Michigan. A Registered Professional Engineer in the State of Michigan, he also completed studies at the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Warren spent the majority of his career as an engineering contractor assigned to the U.S. Army Materiel Command in Alexandria, Virginia. Among his most treasured professional accomplishments was receiving a Letter of Appreciation from the Department of Defense in recognition of his contributions to improvements made to the M1A1 Abrams tank, an achievement of which he was especially proud.

After retiring from a distinguished career in engineering, Warren made his home with his beloved wife, Karen, at Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia, where they shared many happy years together.

Warren had a lifelong love of music and was an accomplished musician in his younger years. During his time at Helix High School, he was a member of the marching band and developed a passion for performing. Together with his sister and friends, he played in a local band that performed throughout the community. He played the trumpet, piano, and clarinet.

Warren was also an avid private pilot who found great joy in flying. He especially loved piloting his Mooney aircraft and treasured the freedom and adventure that aviation provided. As a member of the Smith Mountain Lake Pilots Club, he enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow aviation enthusiasts. Among his favorite memories as a pilot was earning a trophy for a “Spot-On” landing competition at New London Airport in Virginia.

Warren had a lifelong love of sailing and was happiest when he was on the water. Whether aboard sailboats or other vessels he owned throughout his life, being on the water brought him great joy. An active member of numerous sailing organizations, he served in leadership roles including Commodore and Co-Commodore for several sailing clubs. His skill and dedication were reflected in the many first-place trophies and awards that proudly adorned his home and office.

Warren is survived by his wife, Karen Sue Peterson Theis; his daughter, Laura Yvonne Marshall (Tim); his son, David Scott Theis; and his daughter, Gwendolyn Arlene Rockwell (Thomas). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Matthew Marshall (Jamie), Bradley Marshall, Kelly Marshall, Amanda Theis, Domenick Theis, Jarrett Rockwell, Kyle Rockwell (Alexandra), Jake Rockwell, and Anastasia Rockwell; six great-grandchildren; and numerous other family members and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026, at Tharp Funeral Chapel, Bedford, 320 North Bridge Street, Bedford, Virginia 24523. A Celebration of Life reception will be held after the service. Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Bedford, is assisting the family.