Michael H. Thomas

MICHAEL H. THOMAS

Independence

Mike, 60, of Independence, passed away Sunday, Feb. 10, 2019, after battling cancer.

He was an especially proud and devoted father to his three sons. He admired their many talents and valued spending time with them. A recent trip with all three to the West Coast will forever be cherished memories. His grandchildren fondly called him "Papa." They held a special place in his heart, added sparkle to his hazel eyes and he eagerly "scooped" them up in his arms.

Mike was an entrepreneur in the cable TV industry at its inception in Atlanta. He was a dedicated professional with high standards and a proud, strong work ethic. With a charming demeanor, he enjoyed being in sales in many positions and reveled in "sealing" the deal.

Golf was his passion, taking up most of his free time. Mike's endless patience served him well on and off the course.

Mike was selfless with a gentle soul and often texted "one-liners" that immediately put life in perspective. He didn't waste time "sweating the small stuff" but prioritized time with family and friends. He was a loving son, calling his parents daily. His four sisters adored and admired him. His wit and smile lit up the room. To know him was to love him; we miss him.

Surviving to honor his memory are his parents, Harry Thomas and Ramona McDermott Thomas; his sons, Niq, Andy and Jake (Lexi); his grandchildren, Ivy and Parker; his sisters, Julie Skolnick (Ken), Jill Thomas, Patti Thomas (Dan Rehm) and Annie (Chris Clark); nephews, Jack and Michael Skolnick and Tommy Clark; nieces, Laura Skolnick Lienhart (Mark and Sophie) and Katie Clark; aunts, Elaine Brown Sr. Jeanette McDermott, Marlene (Dan) Reid, Jean McDermott and Gail Dolphin; and many cousins.

A Mass will be held on Monday, Feb. 18, at 10:30 a.m. at St. John Catholic Church, on Pleasant Grove Road, Epworth, Iowa.