Donald J. Thomas

Donald J. Thomas passed away on August 9, 2012 in Palm Desert, CA. He was born May 1, 1916 in Paulding County, Ohio, to Minnie (Font) Thomas and Raymond Thomas. He was the oldest of eight siblings. He joined the National Guard and was later inducted into the regular Army prior to World War Two. After spending a 30 year career he retired at the rank of Major. Semi-retiring to Arizona, he worked as a prumium state auditor for Continental Insurance, both in California and Arizona. He married Estella (Peggy) Biglow, a Registered Nurse in 1940. Peggy passed away in 1978, on a visit to Sweet Home, Ore. Donald met Norma Banke, they were married in 1979. Don resided in Sweet Home until the passing of Norma in 2006. He relocated to Palm Desert, CA were he lived until he passed away at the age of 96.

He was a life time member of: The American Legion, Sweet Home Elks and the Retired Officers Association. He was a member of the Fir Lawn Lutheran Church in Sweet Home and the Hope Lutheran Church in Palm Desert.

He is survived by brother Loren Thomas, Ohio and sister Evelyn Diesler, Ohio, daughter Sharon Lewis, Vacaville, CA, son Jerry Thomas, Palm Desert, CA, step son Robert Banke, Kent, WA., grandsons Chad Thomas, Craig Thomas, Jason Lundin, Bryan Banke, Bryson Banke and granddaughter Kristen Biegert. Also, 12 Great Grandchildren, numerous niecies and nephews. His Great Grand Children would always put a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eyes when they visited.

Memorial service and interment will be Monday, August 20, 2012 at 9:30 AM, Green Acres Memorial Park and Cemetary, 401 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, AZ. 85257

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Sweet Home Elks # 1972, 440 Osage St., Sweet Home, OR. 97386-1320