Lloyd J. "Jim" Thomas Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Lloyd James Thomas (Jim) left his family and friends on January 31, 2018. He was at home surrounded by his family. Jim is the youngest of eight brothers and sisters, he was born to John and Anna (Borgman) Thomas on April 30, 1935. He grew up on an eighty acre farm east of Toppenish. He met his high school sweet heart Shirley Gunnyon while attending Toppenish High school. They graduated in 1955, and they were united at St. Aloysius church in December of that year. From the union three children were born, Debbie in 1958, Jimmy in 1961 and Billy in 1966. Jim worked as a retail meat manager for 34 years at various stores throughout the valley. He served in the Army National Guard, from 1953-1961. His fondest memories are growing up with his best friend Arland Pomerinke. They were the modern day Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer of their time. Hunting, exploring and many adventures on the Yakima river. Jim came from musical family, music was very important part of the family’s life. Fond memories of his life was accompanying his dad with his brother when his father won the first Washington state fiddling contest in 1966 at George, Washington. For many years after that he accompanied his dad and many other accomplished fiddlers in the national fiddling contest in Weiser, Idaho each year. He enjoyed the family get togethers, when he and his brothers would entertain all the family and friends. He helped many musicians learn the style of old time fiddle music. He played at nursing homes and retirement centers, bringing joy and memories to the residents. He was an avid fan watching his sons and grandsons playing sports. Jim was the first chairman of the Washington Old Time Fiddlers District 7, president of Toppenish Historical Society, board member of the Yakima Historical Society, longtime volunteer of the Toppenish Chamber and Mural Society at the Toppenish Information Center. Winning the Joseph C Murphy Lifetime Achievement Award. Belong to the Zillah Civic Senior Center, life time member of the Eagles Aerie 2229. Jim’s favorite hobbies were restoring classic and antique cars. Like the 1947 jeep he restored, so he could carry the WWII Veterans in valley parades. Preceded in death by his parents, brothers Herb, Delbert, Gene, and Bill. Sisters Eleanor, and Lucille, daughter Debbie, and grandson, Jimmy Jr. Survived by, his wife Shirley, sons Jimmy (Anna) and Billy and brother Beryl and numerous nieces and nephews. Thanks to Hospice, Kadlec Hospital, Seattle Virginia Mason and a very special thanks to our angel Katie Eims Viewing will be Monday Feb 5th from 12:00pm-6:00pm Colonial Funeral Home. Private family graveside service. There will be a remembrance of life at a later date. Donation can be made to your choice of charities.

Lloyd J. "Jim" Thomas

April 30, 1935 - January 31, 2018

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Lloyd J. "Jim" Thomas

April 30, 1935 - January 31, 2018

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