Obituary of Garret "Tim" Thomas

Garret "Tim" Thomas, 88, of Pleasant Prairie, WI, formerly of Zion, IL, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2019 at home.

He was born March 5, 1931 in Waukegan, IL, to Garret and Ruth Thomas.  Tim graduated from Zion-Benton Township High School with the class of 1949.  He married Elaine McCulloch on August 19, 1950 in Zion.  Tim was always a devoted employee having worked for and retiring from Outboard Marine Corporation Engineering Testing after 32 years , upon retirement he filled his days working at the Singing River Ranch in Evergreen, CO; the Beach Park School District facilities department; and the Christian Catholic Church facilities department.  He was also a devoted member of the Naval Reserves for 8 years.  

In high school he played for the Zion-Benton Zee Bees basketball and baseball teams later playing with the semi-pro Johnson Sea Horses baseball team.   Tim was an active member of his church community at Christian Catholic Church, which included serving as an usher, youth baseball coach, and with the youth Challengers group; and he enjoyed volunteering for Camp Zion work parties.  Most recently he has been blessed worshipping at  Daybreak Church in Kenosha, WI. Tim loved to camp, boat, and serve as the family barber.  He was the best handyman ever and was a talented woodworker.  Tim was always a patient mentor to his family.

In the writing of his grandson, Greg...

"Colossians 3:17 CSB

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

  This was modeled for my family by this sweet and Humble man.  Today Garret "Tim" Thomas went home to his reward.  Anyone who ever met him felt that they were his favorite.  He had an ability to make whoever he met feel important and heard.  My life wouldn't be or have been as good without him.  He cherished his wife.  He sacrificed for his kids.  He adored his grand-kids.  He learned to really love his savior, Jesus.  I am already missing him, but my joy for him and where he is now far outweighs sadness.  

  If you don't already know the transforming love of Jesus don't delay.  Tim would love to see you someday soon!"

Those who will carry on his legacy include his wife of almost 69 years, Elaine; children, Kathie (Rick) Snyder, Gary (Karen) Thomas, Terry (Kathy) Thomas, and Barb (Mike) Eliason; grandchildren, Mike (Keri) Snyder, Greg (Deidra) Thomas, Brienne (Jason) Palmer, Jordan Thomas, Marty (MariKate) Thomas, Mandy (Gavin) Hutchison, Landon (Emily) Thomas, Stephanie (John Michael) Cox, Katelyn Eliason, and David Eliason; 15 great-grandchildren, Kamden, Kenzie, Kayzlee, Jaidan, Kanen, Hannah, Zoe, Dillon, Emma, Addison, Marilyn, Job, Micayla, Averie, Quinn, and one on the way; sister, Joyce Christensen; brother, William (Diana) Thomas; and sister-in-law, Lerita McCulloch; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Garrett and Ruth Thomas; grandson Aaron Snyder; brothers Wayne Thomas, and George Thomas; sister-in-law, Barbara Davis; brothers-in-law, Clint Davis, Robert McCulloch and Erwin Christensen; sisters-in-law, Freida Thomas and Judy Thomas.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2019 from 9:30 until 11:00 a.m. at Daybreak Church, 5631 - 6th Avenue, Kenosha, WI 53140.  A memorial service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the church with Pastor Brit Windel, officiating. 

In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to Daybreak Church, 5631 - 6th Avenue, Kenosha, WI.