Leroy Thomas

Leroy Thomas, age 70, lost his battle to cancer and passed away on August 22, 2014 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Leroy was born in Joliet, Illinois on December 29, 1943. Leroy was preceded in death by his parents, William Thomas and Frances Hubert, and brother William Thomas (Phyllis). Leroy is survived by his wife, Patricia (Kozak). They were married in December 28, 1970 in Lockport, Illinois. He is survived by three daughters, Jane March (Daniel), Laurie Lenhart, and Mary Jo Van Thyne (Craig) who live in California. He is survived by his brother, James Thomas (Barbara); step-sister, Rosemary Stromberg (Robert); step-brother, Robert Hubert (Cheryl); two sisters-in-law, Marilyn Zeller (James) and Carol Bolton (Harvey); and numerous nieces and nephews. Leroy attended Chaney Grade School and Lockport Township High School in Illinois. In 1972, he moved his family to Anaheim, California and then to Yorba Linda, California. Leroy began work as a bricklayer. The family enjoyed living in southern California where he began his first business, Powa-Rooter Sewer and Drain Service. In 1975, he established Empire Pipe Cleaning & Equipment, Inc. which is still in existence today. Leroy and Patricia enjoyed spending time and attending activities with their four grandchildren: Veronica Lenhart, Mathew Lenhart, Natalie Van Thyne and Eric Van Thyne. Leroy always made sure that the Holidays were a special time to spend with the family. Leroy and Patricia enjoyed their retirement and traveled the country in their RV. They explored North America for five years and eventually settled in Las Vegas. Leroy always had a passion for classic and sports cars and over the years had a collection of his favorites. He won many awards showing his collection at car shows. He loved auto racing and Patricia and Leroy attended numerous NASCAR and NHRA events across the country. They invited family and friends and everyone would always have a great time. They found great friendships from the people they met at those events. Leroy enjoyed watching sports with his friends and family.