Beryl passed away peacefully, with family by his side, on Thursday, February 21st of 2019 at The Cottage in the Meadow in Yakima, Wa. Beryl was born to his parents, John and Anna Thomas, in Sifton, Washington, on November 16th, 1921. Beryl was the last surviving of his 8 siblings. He was raised on a farm in Toppenish, Wa. and graduated from Toppenish High School. After high school, he went on to become a commercial artist and sign painter. He served in the Army Air Corps during WWII in 1942, stationed in Panama.
Beryl was an avid historian, community member, and local artist. He served as the historian for the Yakima Mural Society and the Yakima Historical Society for over 20 years. You can find one of his murals of Alex McCoy in Toppenish, painted in 1996. He was also a longtime member of the Washington Old Time Fiddlers Association, as well as the VFW and American Legion.
Beryl had many passions in life. He enjoyed painting, especially family portraits. You could find Beryl outside, homesteading in East Selah, and spending time with his family, which included great and great-great grandchildren. Perhaps his strongest passion was being with his wife, Luella, of over 50 years.
He is survived by his 2 children, Cyndie Thomas-Krausa and Doug Thomas, and 4 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandson. Preceded in death by his wife, Luella Thomas and great grandson Anthony Guiterrez.
Beryl had a long and fruitful life. He enhanced the lives of all who came in contact with him, his sense of humor, his positive outlook and demeanor. He will be sincerely missed by all who had the opportunity to know him. His service will be Thursday, February 28th at 12 pm. It will be held at Keith and Keith Funeral Home.
