David Thomas

David L. Thomas, 55, of Aledo, passed away Monday, April 9, 2012 at his home with his family by his side. The family will be hosting an Open House, with light supper, at Hamlet Hall on Saturday, April 21 from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. The Hall is located north of Aledo on Hwy. 94. Guests are welcome to attend in casual attire as this would be in the true spirit of Dave's low-key demeanor. There will not be any visitation or funeral services. Memorials may be left to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Hamlet-Perryton Presbyterian Church, Mercer County Track and Field Renovation, or the Fur Traders of America Museum. Fippinger Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be made at www.fippingerfuneralhome.com.

Dave was born February 19, 1957 in Moline, Illinois to Leonard "Bud" & Frances (Sparling) Thomas of Aledo, Illinois. He married Sarah Ann Gray on December 31, 1976. He attended Aledo High School and was employed by Bud Thomas Construction and Zenk Construction both of Aledo and this year marked 27 years with Frye Builders and Associates of Muscatine, Iowa.

Dave enjoyed his annual family vacations, especially camping in the Colorado Rockies and seeing its wildlife. His hobbies included fishing, hunting, trapping, reading, traveling, and supporting Aledo Green Dragon football and track, Northern Illinois Huskie Football as well as his beloved Chicago Bears. One of his greatest achievements was building his family's log home. He also took great pride in his construction duties and enjoyed working with great people. His witty sense of humor and infectious laugh will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his wife, Sarah; daughter, Wendy Thomas and son-in-law, Matthew Gygax of Atlanta, Georgia and son, Wyatt Thomas and future daughter-in-law, Abigail Cabrera and her daughter, Aubrey, all of Chicago; sister, Nancy (Mike) Holle of Taylor Ridge; brothers, John (Joyce) Thomas and Paul (Leanne) Thomas of Aledo and numerous nieces and nephews.