Robert (Bob) John Phillips Thomas, age 90, passed away peacefully Dec. 22, 2016.
He was born June 18, 1926, in Seattle to James Milton Thomas and Edna (Hicks) Thomas. He was preceded in death by his brothers James Shotwell Thomas and John (Jack) Byron Thomas.
Bob is survived by his wife of 61 years, Marlys (Bridgham) Thomas; sister, Sue (Peter) Overton, children; Shelley (Tim) Kranz, Rob (Pam) Thomas, Marcy (Todd) Lund, Brian Thomas; grandchildren, Kiley (Todd) Wylie, Whitney Kranz, Sam and Parker Thomas, Jake and Todd Pedersen, Brett and Ally Lund, Jordan and Leah Thomas; two great-grandchildren and one more on the way, as well as many nieces and nephews.
He spent his early childhood in Seattle before the family moved to Aberdeen, Wash., where he graduated from Weather Wax High School, in 1944. He served two years in the Air Force, and later attended the University of Washington, where he was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity.
Bob met the love of his life, Marlys (Bridgham) Thomas, and married July 9, 1955. They spent their early years raising their family in Everett, Wash. before moving in 1971, to their current home in Indianola, Wash.
He enjoyed a successful career in sales and management in the office equipment industry, working for Trowbridge Office Equipment Company and Wholesale Office Equipment Company for 25 years.
Bob had a passion for reading, mastering crossword puzzles and was an exceptional craftsman at refinishing and repairing furniture. He was a man of great wisdom, advice and a terrific memory when it came to sharing stories over the years with family and friends. He was a gentleman, always opening the door for a lady and following behind them. He shared and passed on these life skills to his children.
Many of his favorite traditions and memories were those made over the years, spending summers at Mason Lake, where four generations of neighboring families have shared a special bond for over 75 years. It was there that the family vacationed every year, learning the art and balance of working hard to maintain the cabin, to playing hard, fishing, swimming, boating and skiing.
The family would like to especially thank the wonderful doctors, nurses and caring staff at Harrison Medical Center Bremerton- CHI Franciscan Health.
At his request, there will be no service. A family celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be sent to North Kitsap Fire & Rescue (Household Fund), 26642 Miller Bay Road NE, Kingston, WA 98346 or Alzheimer’s Association, 100 West Harrison St., Suite N 200, Seattle, WA 98119.
