Obituary for Robert Thomas

Robert M. Thomas

(March 25, 1930 – April 2, 2016)

Robert Marsh Thomas, 86, of Ponca City, Oklahoma, passed away on April 2, 2016. The funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM at the First Christian Church in Ponca City. Reverend Larry B. Metzger will be officiating. Burial will precede the funeral at Tonkawa Cemetery at 12:00 PM. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Trout Funeral Home.

Robert Thomas was born in Braman, Oklahoma on March 25th, 1930 to Marsh Thomas and Edna Mae Switzer Thomas. He graduated from Tonkawa High School and continued on to receive an Associate’s degree from Northern Oklahoma College. He served in the Navy aboard a destroyer during the Korean War from 1952 to 1954. Robert married to Leona Mae Schatz on August 18th, 1950; they were married 63 years. Robert owned and operated the Braudrick Printery in Ponca City for over 40 years. He also owned and operated the Big Country Mobile home park. His life revolved around his family. He was a friend, mentor and father figure not only to his children, but also to his grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He was also actively involved in the AMBUCs, the VFW and the American legion where he served as commander.

Robert is survived by his daughter, Gaylene Patterson, son Jeff Thomas, grandchildren Shane Patterson, Elard Thomas, B.J. Patterson and Bethany Holderread, great grandchildren Allie Patterson and Jackson Patterson and other family and friends.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents, wife Leona and son Jay.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be given to Marland Children’s Home in Ponca City.

Source: Trout Funeral Home