Vernon K. Thomas

Lt. Col. (Ret) Vernon Kenneth Thomas died peacefully on August 8, 2015 in Austin, Texas. He was born in Nezperce, Idaho on December 7, 1930 to George Henry and Vera (Rowe) Thomas. He had an older brother, Stanley (Pat) Thomas and a younger brother, Richard (LaVonne) Thomas. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Stanley.

Vernon Thomas graduated from the University of Idaho in 1954 with a degree in Business Marketing. He served as a pilot in the United States Air Force, most of which was flying KC135s conducting worldwide midair refueling. He received many awards and decorations, including three air medals from the Vietnam War and the Meritorious Service Medal. His last duty station was Pease AFB in New Hampshire where he was assigned to the 509th Air Refueling Squadron. After a long and distinguished career, he retired from the Air Force in 1974 and moved to Austin, Texas.

Vern was married to the love of his life, Mitzi Book Thomas, on December 27, 1958 in Jamestown, North Dakota. They had two children, Elizabeth (David) Hartman and James (Dina) Thomas. He also had a bonus son, David (Nina) Jarrell. Vern adored his seven grandchildren, Courtney (George) Cook, Cody Thomas, Jordan Hartman, Cameron Hartman, Paul Jarrell, Jacob Jarrell and Leah Jarrell who will be honorary pallbearers.

Vern was an active member of the Manchaca United Methodist Church for many years. He was Chairman of the Board of Trustees, he served on many committees and he volunteered with Meals on Wheels and Handy Wheels. He was a Life Member of the Retired Officers Association as well as the American Legion Post 0326. He was a Mr. Fix-It who could do a lot with a hammer, a little paint, and glue. He leaves his family, friends and almost anyone who met him to cherish his memory.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at West Oaks Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and New Century Hospice for their loving care of Vern in his final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Manchaca United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice.