Richard H. Thomas

HINCKLEY -- Richard H. Thomas (Nay tah wash), 80, Hinckley, died Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2002, at Elim Nursing Home in Milaca.

He was born Dec. 5, 1921, in Lake Lena to John and Emma (Churchill) Thomas. He enlisted in the Army from 1942-1946. He was employed as a heavy equipment operator for many years. He served as an Ogi chi da in the ceremonial Drum Society. He was presented an Eagle feather in recognition of service in the Army.

Survivors include two sons, Richard "Sonny" Thomas, Marshalltown, Iowa, and John "Henry" Thomas, LeGrande, Iowa; five daughters, Shirley "Babe" Munsen, Toledo, Iowa, Sharlene "Skita" Fisher, Vinton, Iowa, Devona "Bugs" Haskin, Onamia, and Judie and Julie Thomas, both of Elberon, Iowa; 19 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Lucy May Hansen, Lucielle Mabel Woyak and Lorraine Marion Keller; and a special friend, Bernadette "Deb" Smith.

His wife, Delores; two daughters, Sharon and Patricia; a grandson; and a brother, Sylvester, died earlier.

Services will be 9 a.m. Friday at Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Community Center with Lee Staples officiating. Burial will be in Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis with military rites by AMVETS Post No. 53.

Friends may call beginning at 7 p.m. today at the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Community Center.

Arrangements are with Shelley Funeral Chapel in Onamia.