"Doug was always a kind and helping neighbor prayers to Jean and family in this difficult time "
In loving memory of
Douglas Ray Thomas
May 13, 1947 - April 11, 2021
Douglas Ray Thomas, age 73 of Colfax, passed away on Sunday, April 11, 2021 at his home surrounded by his family. A celebration of Doug's life will be held on Thursday, May 13, 2021 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm at the Howard Street Christian Church. Doug has donated his body to Des Moines University. Memorials may be directed to MercyOne Hospice and condolences may be left for the family at www.coburnfuneralhomes.com
The son of Hiram A and Judith E. (Lester) Thomas, Doug was born on May 13, 1947 in Des Moines, Iowa. He graduated from Colfax High School in 1966 and then Lincoln Tech in auto mechanics in 1968. On November 22, 1968, he was united in marriage to LiJean Williams at the United Methodist Church in Prairie City, Iowa. Doug worked on cars for over 35 years in Des Moines and Colfax. He was a member of the Howard Street Christian Church, The Iowa Street Rod Association, Izaak Walton League and the Colfax Country Club. He previously served on the Colfax Fire And Ambulance. Doug had a passion for old cars, Hot Wheels, model cars and trains.
Those left to honor his memory include his wife, LiJean; daughters, Rhonda Hall, Margaret Gillihan, son-in-law, James Gillihan, Bobbi Riggan and Tami (Bryan) Vaughn; seven grandchildren, Derrick (Jadi) Thomas, Stephaney Gillihan, Rayna Thomas, Aden Hall, Jesica Jones, Rian Good and Joshua Neuman; and nine great grandchildren, Jaiden Cunningham, Kamden Thomas, Oaklynn Thomas, Keldan Pugh, Lillie Jones, Jonnie Jones, Gracie Jones, Bennie Jones and Raidyn Good as well as cousins, sister-in-law, brothers-in-law, and many nieces and nephews. Preceding Doug in death were his parents and a sister, Debra Pion.
Tributes
"LiJean, I'm so sorry to hear of Doug's passing. Prayers for You and the family. Sharon & Bill Slagle"
"There where many weekend nights that we shared that I will never forget! My favorite ice cream will for ever be cookies & cream because of you. I loved following you around and watching you in the garage or downstairs with your cars. My last memory was you doting over my youngest sons feet, ears, & hands. All your focus stayed on him in a room full of people. I watched in silence & thought of many memories we shared! You played a big part in my younger years & for that I?m am truly thankful! I love you grandpa & know you are at peace! Love Jesie ?"
"I am so very sorry for your loss. Dad Thomas was my 2nd dad. Well my 1st when my own wasn't there. He was the best grandpa to Joshua the day he was born.He always made me feel like his daughter. Haven't seen ya all in years but ya all have always been in my heart and prayers. I remember the 1st hot wheels car he gave to Joshua. Joshua loved that basement lol. I will be there in my heart on the 13th. I love you all so very much. "
"My prayers go out to the family and I'll keep everyone in my prayers Michael Pinegar "
"LiJean, I?m so sorry to hear of your husbands passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Kathy Williams"
"So sorry LiJean to hear of your husband's death. My sympathy to you and your family."