Don L. Thomas, age 77, passed away March 13, 2022, at 3:54 am, at his residence, surrounded by family.

Don was born on February 2, 1945 in Lima, OH, to Don E. and Pauline (Cattell) Thomas, both of whom preceded him in death. On December 26, 1962 he married Carol (Barnhill) Thomas who survives in Lima. He worked at BRP Manufacturing where he gave many years of dedicated service, and eventually retired in 2007. Both he and his wife were former members of the Gold Wing Motorcycle organization. He had a passion for motorcycles of all kinds, but he especially loved his Honda. He felt at home in the great outdoors and enjoyed gardening whenever he had the chance. Above all else, he loved spending time with his family, especially his children and grandchildren. Don was an exceptional man, and will be greatly missed by all those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Survivors include: spouse, Carol Thomas; children, Brian Thomas, Belinda (Eric) Niece, Bruce Thomas, and Brett Thomas; siblings and siblings-in-law, Sharon (Ted) Boop, Wilma Davis, Betty Bacon, and Everett Barnhill; grandchildren, Danielle, Michael, Janay, Tyla, Miya, Kayla, Gary, Jorie, and Evan; as well as great-grandchildren, Kholee, Caydin, and Sebastian.
Preceded in death by: parents, Don E. Thomas and Pauline Thomas; grandparents, Roy Thomas, Myrtle Thomas, Fred Cattell, and Goldie Cattell; as well as siblings-in-law, Rose Barnhill, Linda Bockrath, Diane Heilman, Judy Bodine, and Jim Davis.
The family would like to express their sincerest appreciation to the nurses at St. Rita’s Hospital and St. Rita’s Hospice for their outstanding care in this time of need.
Private arrangements are being handled through Chiles-Laman Funeral & Cremation Services. Memorial contributions may be made to an organization of the donor’s choice in Don’s honor.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.