Charles Richard Thomas

May 18, 1954 – October 5, 2025

Charles “Charlie” Richard Thomas passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, October 5th, 2025.

Charlie was born in Kansas City to Charles (Tom) Robert Thomas and Cecelia (Rusty) Mary Llewellyn on May 18, 1954. He graduated from Turner High School in 1972. Shortly after graduation, Charlie enlisted in the United States Army, where he proudly served for two years repairing communication systems, spending much of his time overseas in Korea. He was a proud veteran who loved his country deeply. Upon his honorable discharge, he went on to work for the Santa Fe Railroad for many years.

Charlie was a loving husband to his wife, Kathy Thomas, who preceded him in death in December 2023. He loved and missed her until his very last breath.

A true gentleman, Charlie was kind, even-tempered, and happiest when surrounded by his family. He was the best husband, dad, papa, brother, uncle, and friend anyone could ask for. His fun-loving spirit, big heart, and warm, genuine smile brought joy to all who knew him.

Over the years, Charlie had many hobbies that reflected his adventurous and joyful nature. He loved tinkering on cars with his friends, a passion that stayed with him for life. He was a dedicated Harley-Davidson and classic car enthusiast, enjoying rides and shows. He also collected miniature cars, still in their packages dating back to the 1970s, proudly displaying them on the walls of his beloved “man cave.”

Charlie enjoyed cheering on his favorite teams, the Kansas City Chiefs and the Royals, surrounded by family. He loved attending car shows, caring for his houseplants, and planting colorful flowers on his patio. Over the years, he had many pets who brought him happiness, but Callie the cat held a truly special place in his heart.

Charlie is survived by his sister Barbara (Patrick) Weaver, sister Kathy Johnson, brother Duke (Gracie) Thomas, stepchildren John (Sharon) Ouellette, Kimberly (Phillip) Stegeman, and Patti Ouellette-Spaeth, sister-in-law Cher Conrad, his grandchildren Ashley Jones, KathyJones, Steven Jones, Christina Ouellette, Korey Owen, Jessica Heins, Elizabeth Stegeman, Cutter Spaeth, and Taylor Hastings numerous great-grandchildren, five nephews and their spouses, great nephews and nieces and his precious Callie cat.

He was preceded in death by his wife Kathy, his parents Charles and Rusty Thomas, his stepdaughter Cindy Jones, sister-in-law Pam Baker and a great-grandchild.

Charlie will be remembered for his kind heart, his laughter, and his unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on in the joy, strength, and love he shared with everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A visitation will be held at Chapel Hill - Butler Funeral Home, located at 701 North 94th Street, Kansas City, KS 66112, on October 13, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Funeral services will follow at the same location, starting at 11:00 am.

The final resting place will be at Leavenworth National Cemetery, located at 150 Muncie Road, Leavenworth at a later date.