He was born in Granite City, IL, October 24, 1946 the son of William D. and Virginia (Mateyka) Thomas. He married Janet Stone in Granite City, IL, April 26, 1975 and she survives.
Bill is also survived by two children; William J. Thomas of Springfield, and Tricia (Richard) Byrd of Newport News, VA. He has two grandchildren, Zachary and Makayla Mason, and four step-grandchildren. Also surviving are two sisters; Suzanne (husband Jan) Poneta of Collinsville, IL and Beth Ann (husband Michael) Kinsella of St. Jacob, IL, his brother, David (wife Patti) Thomas of Granite City, IL and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and 4 aunts and 2 uncles.
Bill earned his MBA from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville and served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He began his career with the State of Illinois, Department of Revenue as an Auditor and then retired in 2004 as the Manger of the Sales Tax Processing Division. He was an avid golfer. He was a member of various city leagues at Lincoln Greens, Brookhills, and Bunn Park. He especially enjoyed traveling with his friends to play various courses. Bill was also an accomplished woodworker. He enjoyed home improvement projects and was very meticulous about his lawn and landscape. He was an avid and loyal St. Louis Cardinals Fan.
Visitation and Service: The Thomas family will greet family and friends at Bisch Funeral Home West, 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd. Springfield, IL, Saturday, June 2, 2018 from 12:30 pm until the time of a funeral service at 2:00 pm. His friend and neighbor, David Powell will officiate. Immediately following the funeral service, military honors will be conducted at the funeral home by the Inter-Veterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County. Cremation Rites will be accorded by the Bisch Crematory following the services.
Memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society, 675 E. Linton Ave., Springfield, IL 62703.
Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
Arrangements are under the care of Bisch Funeral Home West 217-544-5424.
