Donald R. Thomas
CONTINENTAL – Donald R. Thomas, 79, of Continental was welcomed home by his Lord and Savior at 4:20 p.m. Monday, September 10, 2012 at St. Rita's Medical Center, Lima. He was reunited with his parents, David and Dorothy (Matson) Thomas and his stepmother, Helen Thomas.  He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Norma J. (Cass) Thomas. They were married June 21, 1958 and she resides in Continental.
Also surviving are four children: David (Kim) Thomas of Weston, Mark Alan Thomas of Continental, Rachel Renae Eagleson of Continental, and Dorothy Jean (Timothy) Heishman of Continental; five grandchildren: Melani Eagleson, Jeffrey Thomas, Jason Thomas, Ashley Heishman, and Victoria Heishman; three great-grandchildren: Jada, Chloe, and Maci Pepiot; and a sister: Thelma Thomas of New Haven, IN.
Don retired from Miller Brothers Construction in Archbold after 36 years. He was an active farmer for 50 plus years. He was an U. S. Army veteran of the Korean War having served from 1950 to1953. He was a member of the Elks and VFW in Defiance, Masonic Lodge in Continental, Military Order of the Cooties in Continental, and a life member of the Continental American Legion. He enjoyed collecting and restoring antique tractors and cars with his son-in-law, Tim and enjoyed fishing, camping, boating, and especially spending time with his family. During the summer months he loved gardening.
Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, September 15, 2012 at HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Continental with Pastor Jerry Rayl officiating. Burial will follow in Monroe Cemetery, Continental with a military service by the Continental American Legion. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, 3 to 8 p.m. on Friday, and one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the funeral home.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or to Christ Lutheran Church Memorial Fund.
Condolences can be expressed at: www.heitmeyerfuneralhome.com.