Sfc (Retired) Michael G. Thomas

Michael Eugene Thomas was born November 10, 1956 in Taylorville, Illinois. He died August 10, 2022 in Austin Texas.

He is preceded in death by his father, Eugene F. Thomas and mother, JoAnn Becker Thomas. Mike is survived by his daughter, Jessica Nicole Thomas (Chad Washenfelder – significant other) of Breckenridge, Colorado; sister, Monica Thomas Lower (Fritz) of Versailles, Kentucky; maternal uncle, Wayne C. Becker (Anita) of Concord, California; first wife and mother of Jessica, Mary Leffelman (Stan) of Hampshire, Illinois; wife (separated) Debra Kunze Thomas of Bastrop, Texas.

Michael grew up in Pana, Illinois and graduated from Pana High School in 1974. He enlisted in the army in 1975 and was honorably discharged in 1978. He was proud of Active-Duty service and the time he served in Germany.  In the late 70s and early 80s he performed various maintenance, mechanical, and electrical work in the Central Illinois area.

Mike then moved to Texas where he joined the Texas Army National Guard at Camp Swift in Bastrop, Texas. He served in the Guard from 1985 – 2011. He retired in 2011 after he achieved the rank of Sergeant First Class. He stayed at Camp Swift working for the Texas Army  National Guard in Civil Service and  retired from the State in 2021.

He was awarded many commendation medals, ribbons & badges during his career.  In his retirement he enjoyed spending time with friends and family.  He was especially fond of riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. He had many plans in place for future rides because, as Mike would say, “Every Day Is A Good Day To Ride.”

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the American Legion Riders Post 533, Loop 150 East 3003, Bastrop Texas 78602.

A celebration of Michael Thomas's life to include Military Honors will be held  Thursday, August 18, 2022 at the American Legion Post 533 in Bastrop, Texas. The American Legion is located at 3003 Loop 150 East in Bastrop, Texas. Family and friends will gather from 12:30pm to 1:00pm and Honors will start the celebration at 1:00pm.