He was born to Hollis and Minnie (Soldier) Thomas in Horton, KS, August 10, 1943. Orville was a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation and a Kansas Kickapoo.
He was a Vietnam Veteran, having served in the United States Army, and a retired Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer for King County and locals 302 and 612.
Orville had a varied life and so was a good storyteller. His teasing wit with the sparkle in his eyes will be deeply missed.
Orville is survived by daughters; Irene Hopkinson and Lorinda Thomas, both of Seattle, WA. A sister, Lythia Shopteese of Mayetta, KS and brothers; John Thomas, William “Augie” Thomas and Jim Keo, all of Kickapoo reservation. He is also survived by 6 grandchildren in Washington State and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved very much.
Orville was preceded in death by his parents, sister Ramona Cadue, brothers; Ted “Nacko” Thomas, Edwin “Coke” Thomas and infant granddaughter, Olivia Angeline.
An inurnment service will be held in Kansas at a later date.
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