James S Thomas

James S. Thomas, age 73, of Kewadin passed away Thursday, January 5, 2017 at Munson Hospice House surrounded by his family. Jim was born March 30, 1943 in Detroit to Charles and Beatrice (Suszek) Thomas. Jim graduated from Elk Rapids High School in 1961 and enlisted in the US Airforce. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War, spending time in Thailand. He married the late Susan Mary Hubbell on January 19, 1963 at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church. Together they raised four children.

Jim was a fork lift mechanic and worked for many different companies, including his own for a time. He was a lifelong member of Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church and he was an active volunteer there. He was a care taker of the facility during the many years that his wife worked at the church. Jim was involved with the Knights of Columbus and was a District Governor and a 4th Degree Knight. Jim also enjoyed his time with the 4H organization. He taught leather craft and wood working, which were a favorite hobby of his. Jim enjoyed watching the wildlife and at the moment of his passing, deer were seen passing by his window.

Jim is survived by his children: Mary (Mark) Stephens of Hebron, KY, Stephanie (Ralph) Epifanio of Deland, FL, and Steven (Kolleen) Thomas of Rapid City; 11 grandchildren and four great grandchildren; a brother, Charles (Marylin) Thomas and numerous nieces and nephews.

Beside his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his wife Sue, daughter Genevieve Thomas, granddaughter Angel Stephens, and a nephew Jacob Hubbell.

Visitation will be held Monday, January 9, 2017 from 5-7pm at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church, 143 Charles St., Elk Rapids, where a Vigil for the deceased will be held at 7 p.m. Additional visitation will be held Tuesday beginning at 10. A Mass from the Order of Christian Funerals will be celebrated Tuesday, January 10, 2017 at 11 a.m. with Rev. Robert J. Zuchowski presiding assisted by Deacon Rene Hoenscheid. Burial will take place in the spring at Hubbell Memorial Gardens. Memorials in Jim’s name may be given to the Right to Life or Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church Building Fund.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Covell Funeral Home of Elk Rapids.