Daniel Joseph Thomas

Daniel Joseph Thomas, Jr. age 74 of Galloway passed away unexpectedly Thursday, May 21, 2020. Dan was born December 11, 1945 to the late Daniel Joseph and Eunice Thomas and graduated from Hilliard High School. He proudly served his country in the US Navy during the Vietnam War. While attending The Ohio State University, Dan began working for Highlights for Children as a data processor. He fell in love with the people at Highlights and the idea of doing something positive for children. He retired from Highlights for Children after more than 20 years of dedicated service. He was a longtime member of Vineyard Columbus. Dan was a self-confessed computer geek. He loved working on and re-building computers. He also enjoyed watching all genres of movies, going to car shows and working on his international Scout. In his later years, he enjoyed shopping (especially for groceries), preparing meals, and trying new recipes. He never met a stranger and could recall names and faces that he had not seen in some time. And he loved to talk to and get to know all people. He was unforgettable to everyone he met as well as consistently late. In addition to his parents, Dan is preceded in death by his son Daniel Joseph Thomas III; his brother David Messer; and sister Donna Thomas. Dan is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Debra J. Thomas; daughter Heather (Ryan) Palsgrove; chosen daughter Laci (Zach) Danielson; and chosen son Luke (Cylee) Devault; he was "Silly Grampy" to Natalie, Harper, Nixon, Ava, and Reed. He is also survived by his sister Marie (Russell) Stapleton; and brothers Charles and Gary Thomas. Dan's Family will receive friends from 4 PM- 7 PM on Wednesday, May 27 at SCHOEDINGER GROVE CITY 3920 Broadway. Guests are respectfully asked to wear masks and attendance will be monitored to ensure safety for everyone attending. Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the funeral service will be private but livestreamed on Dan's webpage at www.schoedinger.com." target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.schoedinger.com. Interment at Sunset Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Lifeline of Ohio or Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Fund Visit www.schoedinger.com to share a favorite memory of Dan or watch his life tribute video.