Ralph Vernon Thomas

Our beloved father and grandfather, Ralph Thomas, died early morning on December 16, 2013. He was born in Spokane, Washington on August 11, 1923 to Lora Thomas (Dinger) and Hugh Thomas. He grew up in Yakima and graduated from Yakima High School.

A member of the greatest generation he served 4 years in the army in Europe during World War II. Upon returning home Dad meet Mom registering for college at Central Washington State College. They were married June 18, 1950. Two weeks after the wedding Dad was recalled to the Korean conflict. He served his country again for a year and a half at which time he was honorably discharged after an injury. He attended annual reunions with his fellow soldiers for as long as his health allowed cherishing the camaraderie of the military.

Dad received a degree in Economics and Accounting from Central Washington State College. He taught business and shop at Highland High School in addition to serving as the school’s counselor. He started an accounting business and found his work with the business community very rewarding.

Dad’s greatest loves were his family and the outdoors. Family vacations were planned accordingly. Winter weekends were spent on the slopes at White Pass. Summers were spent on the family boat in the San Juan and Gulf Islands. In later years vacations included cruises with the grandchildren. These are the memories we will forever cherish.

Dad and Mom were charter members of St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church. He served many years as its Senior Warden. He was also a member of the Elks Club. Upon his retirement Dad found great enjoyment in traveling all over the world with Mom. He wasn't’t home from one trip very long before the next one was planned. He was kind, generous, and fun to be with. We will be forever grateful to have had him as our father.

After Norma’s death and losing his “best friend”, life just wasn’t the same. The family would like to recognize the staff at Englewood Heights Assisted Living for their care of Dad for many years. We also thank the staff at Powell Valley Assisted Living in Gresham, Oregon for the loving care Dad received in the last 8 months.

Ralph Thomas is survived by daughters Gwyn Trull (James) of Sunnyside, Washington and Sara MacIntyre (Ron Helmken) of Gresham, Oregon, grandson Kyle MacIntyre and granddaughter Christine MacIntyre. He is also survived by his sister Naomi Little (Elmo) of Seattle and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Norma R. Thomas, brother Hugh Thomas, and his parents.

Memorial Service will be conducted Friday December 20, 2013 at 1:00 PM in the Rainier Memorial Center. Inurnment services will follow in the Terrace Heights Memorial Park.