04/30/2013
Robert “Bob” Thomas was born on October 9, 1943 in Knoxville, Iowa, the son of Jack Lee Roy and Lena (Vancenbrock) Thomas.
He was united in marriage to Carolyn Kaye Nichols on May 25, 1963, at the Knoxville Assembly of God. Together they raised their three children and later adopted two more children.
Bob lived in Marion County his entire life, making his home in Flagler and Knoxville before finally settling at his current home in Harvey for nearly 30 years. He had worked as a welder at Vermeer, Carters, Pamco, and Kaiser.
Bob loved to go fishing on the river and was a member of many fishing clubs.
He enjoyed deer and coon hunting and liked to hill climb on motorcycles and go-karts.
He was a very talented woodworker, making many treasures for his grandkids, including infant beds, toy chests, doll cribs, and toy semis. Despite his orneriness, he was loved by his children and grandchildren, who he loved to tease.
Bob passed away Tuesday, April 30, 2013, at his home at the age of 69 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Donald Thomas, and sister-in-law, Glena Thomas.
Those left to honor his memory include his wife Kaye; children, Pete Thomas of Knoxville, Toni Baker of Knoxville, and Mary Thomas (Dale Shafer) of Oskaloosa; grandchildren, Wayne Thomas, Victoria Thomas, Brittany Thomas-Bernier, Nichole Shafer, Andrew Thomas, Jacob Shafer, Brandon Shafer, and Jackson Shafer; and brothers, John Thomas of Bussey, Richard (Doris) Thomas of Tracy and Florent (Margaret) Thomas of Des Moines.
Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. on Friday, May 3 with family present from 5 to 7 p.m. at Williams Funeral Home in Knoxville.
Bob will be cremated following the visitation with burial at a later date. The family invites relatives and friends to Bob’s home (1457 195th Place, Harvey) for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 4 from 1-4 p.m.
For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Knoxville Assembly of God Church or to the family.