Richard E. Thomas passed away peacefully just a few days shy of his 91st birthday on November 15, 2022. He was born November 27, 1931, in California.
He served in the US Army from 1950 – 1953, where he lost a foot at “Heartbreak Ridge” for which he received a Purple Heart. After his time in the Army, he enlisted in the Air Force and served until 1960 when a Medical Board retired him due to injuries sustained in Korea. He finished up his career working as a corrections officer for the Utah State Prison and at a State ran half-way house where he retired due to declining health.
He had 6 children with his 1st wife (later divorced). He met and married Joann Brown in 1974 and in doing so gained 4 more kids. They made their life in West Valley City, Utah.
He was active in The Boy Scouts of America and received the “Silver Beaver” Award. Avid stamp collector and had a remarkable collection.
He and Joann were passionate and devoted Square Dancers for 40+ years. They traveled all over the US and Canada going to conventions with the Utah State Square Dancers Association. They made lifelong friends and loved everything to do with the dance community.
Since Joann’s passing, Dick has resided at William E. Christofferson’s Salt Lake Veterans Home where he made many new friends, acquired new “granddaughters” and had a full, fun, and adventurous life. He has now done things he never thought he would or could. We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the wonderful staff and friends at the nursing home for the love, friendship, companionship and care they have shown him. You truly loved him as he did you. Also, a special thanks to Canyon’s Hospice for the love and support that was offered to us in the end of life situation. You are all loved, we are blessed to have meet and had a relationship with you.
He is survived by children, grandchildren, great and great, great grandchildren as well as other extended family. He will be missed.
A viewing will be held Friday Nov. 25, 2022, from 6:00-8:00 pm, at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E. Dimple Dell Rd. Sandy, UT 84092. Graveside service will be held Saturday, November 26, 2022, at 2:00 pm proceeded with a viewing from 12:30 – 1:30 pm, at Larkin Sunset Gardens.
Your father sounds like a wonderful man! You all are so lucky to have him for so many years! We are sorry for your loss!
Jolene, so sorry to hear of the death of your father! It sounds as if he had a full and active life. Also all the service to many others. Our love goes out to you and Jeff and your family. Love you so much!
Jolene, so sorry to hear of the death of your father! It sounds as if he had a full and active life. Also all the service to many others. Our love goes out to you and Jeff and your family. Love you so much! Aunt Ann and Uncle Chuck
Jolene, so sorry to hear of the death of your father! It sounds as if he had a full and active life. Also all the service to many others. Our love goes out to you and Jeff and your family. Love you so much!
Aunt Ann and Uncle Chuck