The community of Peoria is grieving the sudden and tragic loss of Cole Patrick Thierer, who died following a fatal accident while visiting Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. He was 22 years old. News of his passing has left family, friends, and loved ones heartbroken as they come to terms with a loss described as both shocking and deeply painful.
Thierer, a resident of Dunlap, Illinois, was visiting the popular resort destination when the accident occurred. According to information shared with his family, the incident happened unexpectedly. Local authorities have not released additional details regarding the circumstances. As his loved ones mourn, they are also working through the difficult process of bringing him home.
In central Illinois, an outpouring of support has surrounded the Thierer family. Friends and acquaintances have shared memories describing Cole as warm, humorous, and genuinely kind—someone who made others feel comfortable and valued. Many recalled his loyalty, his ability to brighten a room, and his steady presence in the lives of those he cared about.
Born March 15, 2003, Cole was the son of Jeff and Mindi (Meyer) Thierer. He is survived by his parents; his brother, Talen Thierer; his sister, Ella Thierer; grandparents John and Dawn Meyer and Joe and Sue Thierer; aunts and uncles Chris (Amy) Thierer, Michelle (Joe) Kahn, and Joe Thierer; cousins Jordan Thierer, Keri Thierer, Jack Kahn, and Lucy Kahn; and his longtime girlfriend, Anastasia. He is also survived by many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his uncle, Drew Meyer.
Though his life was brief, those closest to Cole say it was filled with purpose, love, and an impact far beyond his years. Family was central to his life, and he maintained close daily connections with his parents and siblings, even while living away from home in recent years. Loved ones say he never ended a call without saying “I love you,” a simple phrase that reflected the way he lived.
Cole was deeply devoted to his friends and took pride in being dependable and supportive. Some of his happiest moments were spent with his girlfriend and their French bulldogs, Mav and Winnie, whom he affectionately referred to as his “boys.”
Ambitious and driven, Cole achieved notable success at a young age. At 18, he founded his own company and pursued his entrepreneurial goals with determination and focus. He was also passionate about politics and confident in expressing his conservative beliefs, engaging others thoughtfully and with conviction.
As the Peoria-area community continues to mourn, many have expressed gratitude for the memories Cole created and the love he shared. His absence leaves a profound void, but his legacy lives on through the people he touched.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, December 19, 2025, at Wright and Salmon Mortuary. A memorial Mass will take place at St. Jude Catholic Church on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation one hour prior. Father Jack Watt will officiate.
Following the Mass, the family invites attendees to join them at Mt. Hawley Country Club for a celebration of Cole Thierer’s life.
