Todd Herbert Thielbar
May 10, 1964 – March 7, 2026

Todd Herbert Thielbar, age 61, was born on May 10, 1964 in Faribault, Minnesota, and passed away on Saturday, March 7, 2026 in Rancho Mission Viejo, California, due to complications from Parkinson’s disease.

Todd’s love for life and learning began early. He graduated from Corona del Mar High School and attended Cal Poly College in Pomona, California. As a teen, he and his mother, Jan, shared a special bond through aviation ground school at Newport Beach Flight School, a spark that grew into a lifelong passion. Todd’s remarkable career as a pilot took him around the globe. Beginning as a First Officer and rising to Captain, he flew the Boeing767 as his final aircraft before health challenges kept him from the skies. He was admired by colleagues for his professionalism, integrity, and kindness.

Above all, Todd was a devoted husband and father. He is survived by his loving wife, Yingzhu, and their four sons: Will, Dutch, West, and Leo. Todd’s greatest joy was his family, whether exploring parks, hiking, playing tennis, attending soccer games, or going on mini adventures, he made every day an opportunity to learn, laugh, and love together.

Todd also cherished his extended family. He is survived by his children from a previous relationship, his son Erik and his daughter Mia. He is also survived by his in-laws Katherine, Michael, Yingbi, Yinghong, and Anson, as well as his close friends Jerry, Ronnie, and Mafe, and their children, all of whom held a special place in his heart. He is survived by his sister, Kimberly, and her husband, Nick, and is fondly remembered by his cousins Nicholas, Jamie, Andrew, Alicia, and Matthew, along with many beloved extended family members.

A lover of music and life’s simple pleasures, Todd had an old soul who found joy in 1960s, 1970s and 1980s music, often sharing his favorites with family and friends. He could bring a room to life performing Elvis’ songs and dances, and he filled every moment with warmth and laughter. “It’s a beautiful day in paradise,” he would say, a phrase that reflected his spirit and love for life.

He was preceded in death by his aunt, Dallas, and is lovingly remembered by her family: Debby, Kevin, Connor, Kari, Jamie, Asha, and Ajay. He was also preceded in death by his grandparents, Marcella, Lawrence, Albert, and Dorothy. Todd’s light shone brightly in every life he touched. His love, kindness, and laughter will be remembered always.

A private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family to support the future college education of his four sons.

Todd, you are deeply missed, forever loved, and will always be a ray of sunshine.

“It’s a beautiful day in paradise.”

To view webcasting of service, click HERE.