Richard F. (Dick) Thomas, a custom residential builder and gifted woodworker, passed away on December 21, 2023 at The Villa at Traverse Point.
Richard was born March 30, 1936 in Flint to the late Harold and Margery (Raper) Thomas. Dick attended General Motors Institute and Flint Junior College. Dick served our country honorably as a member of The United States Army. Upon discharge from the service he moved to Duck Lake Peninsula. Dick was a lifelong hunter, fisherman and enjoyed the outdoors. Dick was a boating enthusiast and owned many boats including Great Lakes worthy fishing boats.
On September 3, 1966 Richard married Kathleen "Kay" Lardie. Dick built their home on East Duck Lake where Dick and Kay enjoyed life for 43 wonderful years together before she passed in 2009.
Dick was known as a quality woodworker. After he retired, Dick would spend his days in his wood working shop usually building things for friends and family. He built two cedar strip fishing boats from scratch.
Dick was a founding member of the Bendon/Interlochen Eagles Club. He enjoyed organizing and participating in club events.
Dick was proud of his service to the community. He served as Green Lake Township Supervisor 1978-1994 and Grand Traverse County Commissioner 1994-2014.
Richard was preceded in Death by his wife Kathleen and sisters Muriel Jacques and Vera Steffler. He is survived by many nieces and nephews.
The memorial service will be held on January 6, 2024 at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home at 11:00am with visitation beginning at 10:30am. A luncheon will follow. He will then be laid to rest with Kay and several family members at Monroe Center Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in his honor may be directed to Cherryland Humane Society or a local charity of your choice.