Donald Ray Thomas

Donald Ray Thomas passed away peacefully on Saturday May 28, 2022 in Wisconsin Rapids. Donnie was born on October 20, 1933 in Stevens Point. At the time his parents, Robert and Sylvia (Reidenbach) Thomas lived in the Milladore area. Shortly after, they moved to Nekoosa, where he grew up, graduating from Nekoosa High School. Despite being born with Spina Bifida, Donnie never considered himself disabled. As an adult, he operated a dairy farm with the help of his parents. He enjoyed tractor work, but most especially spending time with his cows. He milked a herd of about 40 cows throughout most of his farming career. Donnie was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Arpin, Wisconsin, of which his grandmother was one of the founding members.

Donnie was preceded in death by his parents, Robert L. and Sylvia Thomas, and his brother Robert L. Thomas and Robert’s wife Lucille. He is survived by his nieces and nephews, Robert (Anne) Thomas, Randy (Dawn) Thomas, and their daughters Nicole and Holly, RaeAnn (Jon) Gust, and Robyn Thomas. The family would like to share a special thank you to Wisconsin Rapids Health Services and Aspirus Wausau Hospice for their compassionate care. Condolences can be sent online to Hansen-Schilling funeral home. 

A memorial service will be held 1p.m. Sunday, June 5th, 2022 at Hansen-Schilling funeral home. Visitation will be held from Noon until the time of service at the funeral home on Sunday.  Burial will take place at Fairview Cemetery in Sherry, Wisconsin following the service.

As a precaution toward the health of others, the family is requesting face masks be worn during services.

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