Eugene Raymond Thomas, 84

On Sept. 17, 2021, God felt it was time to reward Eugene Thomas for his lifetime of service with a spot in heaven. But not before Gene provided countless volunteer hours to numerous organizations during his time here on earth.

Eugene was born March 17, 1937, in Lawndale, Minnesota, to Pat and Maribelle Thomas. He was the first born son but followed three older sisters who were responsible for his nickname — Butterball, which evolved into “Bud” which stuck with him for life. Bud grew up with 10 siblings — Patricia, Donna, Francis, George, Flavia, Earl, Cathy, Judy, Laurie and Darrell. The Thomas household never turned away others and always provided a place to stay and a meal.

Gene went to Assumption Catholic Grade School in Barnesville and graduated high school in 1956 from Barnesville HS. There he participated in football, basketball, and track and field all four years and dabbled in wrestling and baseball as well. It was here that he met his future wife, Janice Rollie. After a courtship during which they were each in different parts of the country, they married on Aug. 21, 1965.

The couple moved to Michigan City, Indiana, where son Todd was born. This is where Gene found his passion working in the electrical trade. This provided an opportunity to move the family to the Flathead Valley where he worked for Columbia Falls Aluminum and Plum Creek Lumber.

Gene fell in love with Montana during his days of being a high voltage lineman installing distribution lines all the way to Canyon Ferry. The decision to move to Montana was rooted in his passion for the outdoors and all the activities Montana provides.

Gene and Janice had two more children — son John and daughter Brenda.

In 1973, Gene embarked on his final career and started an electrical contracting business. To his final days, Gene only missed going to the shop for hunting season (absolutely) and special days. He worked with and trained many fine electricians, many of whom still work in the trade.

Gene and Janice embarked on many trips throughout the years. They were afforded the great honor of meeting Pope John Paul in Rome during Gene’s appointment as supreme warden of the Knights of Columbus. Their most famous (or infamous) trip was taken with the entire family in a 1973 red Ford Maverick touring across the country en route to Atlanta for a K of C Convention. The trip was in August and the Maverick did not have the benefit of air conditioning, but was equipped with black vinyl seats. Despite the hot miles in the car, the family had a wonderful time and was able to experience a lot of the country.

Through his time with the Boy Scouts of Troop 33, which spanned several decades and numerous awards (including the Silver Beaver), Gene led many backpacking and canoeing trips, cooked many campfire meals, and assisted many future leaders in their quest to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.

During his time here on earth, Gene met many wonderful friends whose friendships he valued very much. Some of the best times of his life were experienced with these friends during their many adventures.

Gene lived a full life of service and love.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his lovely sisters Donna, Patty and Laurie, and his brother George.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years Janice, and his three children Todd (Mira), John and Brenda. Gene was also blessed with six grandsons, Zachary (Kailey), Tyler (Nikki), Connor, Dominic, Ethan and Oliver; and three great-grandchildren, Luke, Sean and Ryan; his sisters, Francis (Cincinnati, Ohio), Flavia (Bemidji, Minnesota), Cathy (Portland), Judy (Edmonds, Washington); and brothers, Earl (Barnesville, Minnesota), and Darrell (Barnesville). Gene will be truly missed by all who knew him. Gene always wanted people to love one another and to say your prayers before bed.

In lieu of flowers, please support one of the following organizations that meant a lot to Gene: St. Matthew’s School and Church, Ray of Hope, Alert, or a charity of your own choosing. Thank you.

The rosary will be said Friday in St. Matthew’s Church from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday at St. Matthew’s at noon, with Father Stan Rog officiating.