Racine- Herbert E. Thomas, Jr., 89, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, August 14, 2010. Herbert was born in Oshkosh, WI on December 3, 1920 to the late Herbert E. and Luella (nee: Hammond) Thomas, Sr. Following graduation from high school, he attended the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh. On November 17, 1942 in Denver, CO, Herbert was united in marriage with the love of his life, Mary Louise (nee: Allen) Thomas, who preceded him in death on February 27, 2008. Herb participated in the European Theatre of World War II, landing in France shortly after the invasion of Normandy. His company, part of Patton’s US Third Army, was instrumental in the liberation of the Mauthausen Concentration Camp (Austria) in 1945. As successful entrepreneurs, Herbert and Mary founded and operated several businesses, including Richmond Dry Cleaners, A&W Restaurant, M & H Foods, Pappy’s Pizza and Tack-It Staple Company. Herb was a member of St. Edward Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. In his younger years, he was an accomplished athlete, especially in speed skating. Among his interests, he enjoyed being active in Drum & Bugle Corp., bowling, and was an avid sports fan. Above all, Herb loved and cherished being in the surroundings of his entire family. Surviving are his devoted children, Judi Dovorany, Patricia (Larry) Jozwik, Kathleen (Carl) Rohloff, James Thomas, and Jody (Michael) Andersen; grandchildren, Dr. John (Renee) Dovorany, Dr. Brian (Abbey) Dovorany, Christian Peterson, Troy (Samarah) Molina; Justin and Michael Jozwik; Jonathan and Jessica Thomas; Jacob, Kate and Peter Andersen; Molly, Melissa and Michele Thomas; great-grandchildren, Nick, Charlie, Frankie, Olivia and Lauren Dovorany; Devin and Shana Molina; and Nariyah Thomas; long-time friend of Herb and Mary Louise, Donna Zehren; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents and wife, Herb was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Mary Ann Thomas; brother, Marshall Thomas; and long-time friend, David Zehren. In accordance with Herb’s wishes, cremation will take place. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, August 21, 2010 at 11:00 am in St. Edward Catholic Church, 1401 Grove Ave., with Rev. Allen Bratkowski officiating. Military honors will follow. Visitation will be in the church on Saturday from 10-11 am. Private interment will take place in S. Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery.
A special note of thanks to Dr. Schectman of the Zablocki VA Medical Center for the compassionate care and friendship shown to Dad during his time of need. Also, thank you to Dr. Brennan of All Saints Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare for his care over the years.
Troy Molina says
I will miss you forever Grandpa