Philip Paul Thomas

Phil lived life to the fullest. Born in Sacramento, California in 1940 he had a challenging young life. He seemed to have an interest in planes and flying, art and drawing from early on. He joined the Civil Air Patrol and after high school enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He was a graphic artist and photographer.

Phil’s Air Force career included a tour in Vietnam. He flew 100 missions over enemy territory and was wounded with shrapnel when a missile penetrated their airplane. He served in the Air Force for 26 years plus and retired with the rank of SMGST.

After the Air Force, he was hired by Hughes Aircraft and continued to work for three more years.

When Phil “finally” retired, he pursued his love of the air by building model airplanes and joining the local Flying Aces Club. He made many wonderful friends through this experience.

Phil was an avid reader. He especially enjoyed history and spent many hours reading. He loved talking with everyone and telling “war” stories.

His wonderful church family at Faith Lutheran Church has been such a blessing. He looked forward to church on Sundays followed by lunch at a favorite restaurant. Phil and Melanie traveled to Israel with their church group; this trip became a very special memory for them. During his long hospital stay, visits from Faith pastors and church friends helped lift his spirits during a difficult time.

Phil’s son, Mike, lives in Eugene Oregon and has kept in touch these last few years by phone which his dad so enjoyed.

He is survived by his wife, Melanie, of 44 years.

Services will be held Friday, January 11, 2019, 3:00 p.m., at FRENCH - Wyoming. Friends may visit beginning at 2:00 p.m.