William “Bill” R. THOMAS passed away on Friday, Nov. 22, 2002, at St. Joseph Hospital West at Lake St. Louis. He has attained the age of 78 years, six months and 26 days.
Bill was born on April 26, 1924 in Rock Hill to Charles and Elizabeth (GERLACH) THOMAS. He attended the local schools in Rock Hill along with his brothers: Carl and Albert and sister, Elizabeth. Following his formal schooling, he was called into the United States Army and served from June 1943 until February 1946. He was stationed with Company D-717th Tank Battalion and was awarded two Bronze Stars for the Rhineland Central Europe Campaigns.
He marred the love of his life, Loretta HILL on May 7, 1948. To this union was born one daughter, Rebecca. The Thomas family lived and worked in Rock Hill, but also bought property and a home in Moscow Mills. They enjoyed their home in the country and would spend much free time there. They joined the Moscow Mills United Methodist Church when they first moved to the country.
Bill was a wood craftsman and was co-owner with his sister, Betty STAHL, of the Rock Hill Woodworking Shop. Bill had a gift of being able to work with wood, just like his father before him. He mostly worked as a millwright, hand-crafting cabinets, doors, windows and molding with such skill and craftsmanship. Bill also built custom pieces for his clientele. One of his last projects was a magnificent roll-top desk with wood acquired from family property.
Also, he repaired and restored his customers’ heirlooms which they brought to him. Not only was he good with wood, he was also good with people. Bill volunteered his time in helping an organization called “Feed My People”.
Bill THOMAS is survived by his loving daughter, Rebecca and husband, David HARDT of Moscow Mills; one brother, Albert THOMAS and wife, Colleen, of Wildwood; one sister, Elizabeth “Betty” STAHL of Rock Hill; other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Loretta THOMAS on May 10, 1973; and one brother, Carl THOMAS.
Graveside services were held on Monday, Nov. 25 at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery with full military honors. Rev. Ed Powlishta officiated.
File submitted to HERITAGE PAGES of LINCOLN COUNTY, MISSOURI by Nancy Weller, 4 February, 2005.
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