Arthur D Thomas

It is with grief that we announce the passing of Arthur D. Thomas (89) after an extended battle with Alzheimer's. He now resides in a better place with his predeceased parents, Carl and Ina, as well as his siblings: Charles, Virginia, Carl Jr., Darrell, Patricia, & Frank. He is the beloved husband of sixty-seven years to Mary Lou, and the father of Danny, Doug, Dave, and Christi. His grandchildren are Kelsey, Roberto, John, Bryce, Corynne, Daniella, Brett, and Jeffrey. He was raised in Cimarron, KS where he still holds his high school record for running the mile. Following his military service in Korea, he returned to wed Mary Lou Schartz and earn a degree from Fort Hayes State University via the GI Bill. The young family then relocated to Las Vegas, NV in 1962 after Art secured a job selling extended warranties for Findlay Oldsmobile. Laboring 24-7, Art soon opened his own dealership and was a generous sponsor of youth athletics. Eventually, he co-owned and operated Allstate Rent-A-Car, Henry’s Ice Cream and Candy, Los Rancheros Restaurant, and multiple other entrepreneurial endeavors until forming a partnership with his oldest son in Metropolitan Linen. Yet, Art’s first love remained family and what little time he spent away from work was to attend his children’s and grandchildren's sporting events or Bishop Gorman High School and UNLV football and basketball games. He always nonchalantly secured tickets for all interested family members. Family vacations to Solana Beach always included afternoons at the Del Mar horse races followed by huge celebratory dinners joyously financed by “Grandpa”. These games and trips were his happiest moments! He was also a generous donor and an avid fund raiser. When Bishop Gorman experienced fiscal woes in the 1980s, his gathering of donors assisted in securing the Viatorian school’s stability. He helped establish the Knight of the Gael fundraiser in 1982 which continues to provide scholarships' to deserving students that otherwise would be unable to attend BGHS.

Funeral services are at 11am on January 19th at St. Viator’s Parish: 2461 E. Flamingo, 89121 with a reception immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the St. Viator Community, in care of Fr. Rinn at the above address, or via the UNLV Rebel Athletic Fund. Please celebrate Art’s commitment to Running Rebel Basketball by attending the game against Fresno St., on February 3rd, at 8 pm at the Thomas and Mack.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.palmcheyenne.com for the Thomas family.