Thomas graduated from Wayne State University with an Associate’s Degree. In December of 1966, he married the love of his life, Helen Sindone. Thomas served 21 dedicated years in the U.S. Army. He served in WWII and Korea and his courageous acts, freeing prisoners of war and liberating a concentration camp, earned him several Silver Stars, 2 Purple Hearts, 2 Bronze Stars with “V” device, and many other prestigious medals and awards. He retired with the rank of Master Sargent E8. In his free time, Thomas participated in the Kingsley Band Boosters, where he came up with the idea to switch from selling premade pizzas to sub sandwiches, which are still being sold today. He was a trustee on the Paradise Township Board for several years and a member of the Paradise Township Planning Commission and the Grand Traverse County Planning Commission. He was a lifetime member of the NRA, and was a member of the VFW Cherryland Post 2780. Thomas was also an avid hunter and fisherman. He was a dedicated father and grandfather who always had time for his grandchildren and family. He will be missed by the guys in the coffee club.
Thomas is survived by his wife, Helen, children Lance Paton, James (Kendra) Lockard, Don (Cory) Paton, Lisa (Dale) Gulliver, Sharon (Ben) Hanes, grandchildren Mark, Lindsay, Donnie, William, Eddie, Jacob, Kylee, Isabell, Michael, Jareb, Nic, Katie, Jamie, Tommie, Olivia, Makayla, Dale, and Robert, 5 great grandchildren, brother Pat(Vesper) Paton, sister Betty, half sister Peggy(Jim) King, half brother Mike, and beloved dog Molly. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Donia, and brother Jimmy.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 30, 2013 from 4 to 8pm at Covell Funeral Home in Kingsley. A funeral service will full military honors will be held on Thursday, October 31, 2013 at 1pm, with visitation one hour prior, at Covell Funeral Home in Kingsley. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Wounded Warriors Project. Please share your fond memories and condolences at www.CovellKingsley.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Covell Funeral Home.
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