Jack Thomas

Jack Thomas, 88, of Dowagiac passed away peacefully and gently on September 7th, 2016 at his home, surrounded by his family. A memorial service, with Dr. David M. Mathews officiating, will take place on Sunday, September 11, 2016, at 2pm at the VFW Hall in Dowagiac. Clark Chapel, Dowagiac is assisting the family.  Memorial contributions may be made to his son, Dave Thomas to assist with expenses. A son of the late Richard Thomas and Iva McClusky Thomas, he was born on October 4, 1927 in Dowagiac, MI. He served our country in the US Army Band as a trombone player, and had the honor of entertaining Presidents Truman and Eisenhower. He was able to travel extensively with the Army band and his love of music continued with the forming several jazz bands, including The Swingsters, The Skylarks and The Melody Men.  Two of his band members were Charlie Volgyes and Roy Miller. Jacks work life was plumbing. He was a Master plumber with 7 state licenses. He owned and operated Thomas Plumbing and Heating, a family business that began over 100 years ago. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife of almost 55 years, Julia Murphy Thomas, who passed in 2005; a brother, Floyd “Sike” Thomas and a sister, Donna Jerdon. Jack is survived by his son David Thomas, Dowagiac, MI; daughter Laura “Phoebe” Thomas-Squier and her husband Jeff, Avondale, AZ; two grandsons, David Livingston, his wife Jamie and their children, Taven, Emelia, Brody and Bristol. He is also survived by his grandson Jason Livingston, his wife Lupe and their son, Samuel.  He has had a long, special and wonderful relationship with Carol Booth and she has been a blessing to Jack and his family. Jack was a kind, gentle and hysterically funny man. He loved his family, his friend and all animals. He will certainly be missed by all who were lucky enough to know him.