Patrick E. Thomas

Patrick E. Thomas Sr. 77, of Marion, Ohio passed away on March 2, 2023, after an extended illness.  He was born on May 3, 1945, to Donna Ruth (Frazier) Thomas and Merald E. Thomas.  He graduated from Marion Harding High School with the class of 1964.  He played football and lettered in Cross Country and Track coached by Kenny Somerlot.  He was a member of the 880 Yard Relay team that qualified for the State Track Meet two years in a row.

On August 21, 1965, he married Donna Narney.  They met at a mutual friend’s house after a Harding Football game in Pat’s Junior year of high school.   Pat was from a large family. When they inquired about who he was on the phone with all the time he responded, “El Cid” (a popular move at the time) and Donna has been “Syd” to the family ever since.

Donna’s father made sure Pat had a reliable job and took him to apply for work on the Erie Railroad right after graduation.  He remained a Fireman/Engineer with the Erie and later Con Rail for 15 years.  After leaving the railroad he worked for Tecumseh, the YMCA, and Berwind Railway.  Getting tired of layoffs he took a job with the City of Marion, first as a Bus Driver, then in the Wastewater Treatment system.  Finally, he found a home in the Sanitation Department.  He often joked that he went from being Ralph Kramden to Ed Norton.  His most prized accomplishment was serving as President of AFSME #1158 for most of the 27 years he served the city.  He was particularly proud of the work he and his brother Mike Thomas did to prevent the privatization of the Sanitation Department.

Pat had a lot of artistic talent and he had developed into an excellent woodworker, designing a garage to fill his time in retirement.  He made many pieces of furniture for the grandchildren and the great grands.

His biggest joy in life was spending time with children. Before his children were born, he served as a Webelos Leader in Boy Scouts. Being a kid at heart himself there would often be a knock at the door from the neighborhood kids asking if, “Pat could come out and play”.  He was involved with his children and later his grandchildren in their sports and activities (at times as an official coach and others as an armchair coach).  Every child in his life knew they could count on him and always felt supported.

He was preceded in death by Parents, Donna Ruth Thomas, and Merald E.  Thomas; Brothers Jim Thomas and Corky Thomas; In-laws Donald R. Narney, and Getrude Narney.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Donna Mary Thomas; his children, Dodi (Joe)  Mawer; Beth (Adam) Mohror; Katie (Ben) Gates; and Patrick Thomas Jr. ; 12 Grandchildren; 15 Great Grandchildren; Brothers Tim (Anita) Thomas Carrolton, Ga; Mike (Phyllis) Thomas Marion; and Sister, Judy Ishida of Marion along with many nieces and nephews.

Memorial donations in lieu of flowers can be given to Emanuel Lutheran Church or the Activities Fund at Marion Point (JAG).

Edwards Funeral Home will host visitation on Sunday, March 5 from 5 to 7 pm and the Funeral Services will be held On Monday, March 6 at 11 am at Emanuel Lutheran Church with Pastor Michael Poole officiating.