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Melvin Thomas Obituary
Mel was a gifted athlete. At Alexandria High School he starred in football, basketball, and track. He holds the distinction of being part of five championship teams during his high school and college career. At Alexandria, he was part of two state B championship teams and at South Dakota State University he was a part of three North Central Conference championship teams culminating in a tournament berth in the Division II National Tournament. Mel was a starting defensive back on the 1969 SDSU football team. Mel's college basketball coach, Jim Marking, said Mel was the best defensive player he had ever coached. In his athletic endeavors, as well as his professional life, Mel had the heart of a champion.
Mel attended South Dakota State University on a basketball scholarship and majored in Civil Engineering. He felt a call to practice medicine and attended the University of South Dakota School of Medicine, finishing his medical education at Eastern Virginia Medical School. After fulfilling his obligation as a physician with the United States Public Health Corp, he completed a General Internal Medicine residency at the University of South Dakota School of Medicine. He practiced as a physician for 45 years as a clinician and in academics. Starting in 2008, he was a partner with Avera Internal Medicine Group in Sioux Falls, SD.
A love for music, art, and books was central to Mel's life. His appreciation for words was often expressed in his ability to write poetry. This year, he was honored to have one of his works accepted for publication in South Dakota by South Dakotans, an anthology of poems collected by South Dakota Poet Laureate, Christine Stewart.
In 1982, Mel married Carol Williamson and they had two children, Lindsey C. Thomas and Evan W. Thomas. Mel shared his love of basketball with his two children by coaching them in youth sports and attending many high school and college basketball games.
In 2008, Mel married Nancy (Hannemann) Thum. Together they enjoyed gardening, water sports at their Enemy Swim Cabin, attending prep and college basketball games, their love of dogs, and their church, Calvary Episcopal Cathedral. Mel was a soulful man committed to God, family, and patients. He shared a gentle touch and a listening ear with all he encountered.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Roger Thomas and Arlue (Nix) Thomas. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Thum-Thomas; daughter, Lindsay Thomas and her partner, Jessica Rosenberg; son, Evan Thomas and his partner, Keith Bynum, Jr.; step-sons Jonathan Thum (Melissa), Daniel Thum (Mary), and Joseph Thum (Lauren); grandsons Jonah, Roman, Eli, Jackson, Targhee, and Poppy Seed. He is also survived by his brothers Kent Thomas (Connie), John Thomas (Lee), Rod Thomas (Linda), David Thomas (Nancy), Gary Thomas (Lori), and his sister Mary Tracy (Mark); as well as brother-in-laws Keith Hannemann (Peggy), Scott Hannemann (Jane); his father-in-law, Henry Hannemann, and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. A visitation will be held at Heritage Funeral Home on Tuesday, September 15 from 5-7 p.m. A family service will be held on September 16 at 2 p.m., and an open reception will follow at The Veranda at the Meadow Barn at Country Orchard, 1690 Willow Street, West Harrisburg, SD.
We will be complying with the CDC rules in regards to Covid-19 and gatherings. If you would like to participate in the memorial remotely, it will be livestreamed
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Memories and Condolences
for Melvin Thomas
Sponsored by Heritage Funeral Home and Cremation Services - Sioux Falls.
Jim Rourk
March 22, 2021
well old neighbor, wonderful memories of our playing pick up basketball with your brother John. Playing chess and checkers with your Dad. Also visits to your dorm room after my talismen gigs and your basketball games, See you in heaven. Look after me while I am here
John B Davis
November 23, 2020
I just heard from Jim Horning that Mel died this fall. I was so sorry to hear the news. Mel was a roommate one year at USD and later I worked with him at the Sioux Falls VA. He was always kind and fair and he will be missed. My condolences to his family.
Dick Bartling
September 25, 2020
Lindsey and Evan: I grew up in Brookings attending State basketball games, so I knew who the Thomas brothers were. I really enjoyed meeting your Dad when he brought you in to train with us at the Avera McKennan Acceleration Program. Our paths crossed occasionally over the past 20 years, especially at the grocery store. I always enjoyed chatting with him and catching up on your lives. He impacted many and will definitely be missed. May your memories bring you smiles and your faith bring you peace.
Constance Spicero
September 22, 2020
Dr. Thomas was always in a good mood and so likeable. He was kind to everyone he met and was a wonderful physician.
Betty Dinger
September 21, 2020
With Deepest Respect and Sincerest Sympathy on the Loss of Dr. Thomas, he was my Dr. and I will always remember him as the Wonderful Person he is, always kind and he really listened to me...my prayers go out to his family and friends. I am Thankful to have known him. God Bless
Pam Harris
September 21, 2020
I’m so saddened to hear of Mel’s passing. He was one of my very favorite physician and professional partners at the VA. He was So loving and supportive of our veteran patients. I remember him best for his kindness and good heart. Everyone loved Mel. My condolences to his entire family.
Judy Schmitz
September 20, 2020
Wonderful doctor so caring and did everything to help my husband. RIP
Tom Mulso
September 18, 2020
It was a honor and a privilege to know Mel Thomas.
Kay Saukerson Nelson
September 18, 2020
My prayers are with the family
Tanya Knutson
September 18, 2020
My husband and I are patients of Dr Thomas, we have been for over 10 years. He was kind and humble, compassionate and His Faith Radiated from him.
We are praying for his family in this devastating loss. Heaven has gained another gentle warrior.
Lee & Karen Larsen
September 18, 2020
Dear Thomas family, I was shocked at Mel’s sudden passing. Be comforted by the love that surrounds you and rejoice in the promise of eternal life We will keep your family in our prayers. May many great memories salve the pain of your sudden loss.
Lee & Karen Larsen
Quin Lund
September 17, 2020
Dr Thomas. You will be missed. Thank you for being my Dr and a great colleague.
Margaret Johnson
September 17, 2020
I have been a patient of Dr. Thomas for the last few years. I have always enjoyed his kind manner and his humor. I will miss him. I pray that his family and close friends be comforted in their loss.
Alex Christopulos
September 17, 2020
Dr. Thomas was a special person to me. Years ago, he took me on as his patient and guided me through a myriad of struggles. His guidance as a Medical Doctor often came second, though, because he always, ALWAYS wanted to be sure I was just doing ok as a human. I recently moved back to South Dakota and re-established my care with him and in the few visits we had, four at most, he was doing what he always did; making sure I'm getting the care I need
I've been blessed to be his patient, his friend. I will miss him greatly.
Danelle Letscher
September 16, 2020
My prayers to Dr Thomas' family. My dad and I were his patients and we enjoyed him as a Dr. I'll miss him greatly.
Sherry Kelley
September 16, 2020
Nancy, I am so sad to learn of the passing of Mel. At the VA Hospital, whenever I worked around him he had a genuine concern, listening ear, gentle manner and respect for our veterans. Prayers for you and the family at this difficult time.
SDSU NCC Champions 1968-69
Dan Marking
September 16, 2020
The Marking family would like to express our deepest sympathy and condolences to the entire Thomas family.
My dad, Jim Marking had the highest respect for your family and the all the Thomas brothers that played for him.
I have one old trophy on my mantel. Its the SDSU NCC Championship Trophy from 1968-69. I was happy to see that Mel and John were on that team!
I remember one of the old stories. The Thomas brothers were driving home for the holidays. Dad got a call that their car broke down about an hour west of Brookings. He went and picked them up and drove them the rest of the way home!
Mel was also my dads doctor, he saw Mel when needed and also would call Mel for advise when my mom was fighting cancer. What started as a coach/player relationship developed into a life long friendship.
We are so sorry for your loss.
katherine witherington
September 16, 2020
Dear Thomas family. Although we only know Lindsay and Evan we want to express our sadness at Mel's passing to you all. Mel was a wonderful doctor and took excellent care of me when we lived in Brookings. Carol and I are still good friends and I know all of you will miss Mel very much. Gay & Paul Witherington
Jason Vollmer
September 16, 2020
Nancy I am sorry for your loss. Mel was always a pleasure to work with at the VA. Always friendly and smiling and willing to help.
Betty Saxton, Nordhausen
September 15, 2020
My Deepest Sympathy to the Thomas family. I knew Mel when we attended Alexandria High School together and enjoyed seeing him every Sunday when we attended the Methodist Church when his father was the pastor. So many fond memories of the Thomas family when they lived in Alex. He will surely be missed by all who knew.
Rich and Georgia Hetland
September 15, 2020
RIP Mel. Quite a few good times years ago.
Roger Thomas
September 15, 2020
Darn it Mel ...this is your brother Rod. I am missing you. I wish Nanc and fam my warm and sincere condolences.
Sharon Taplett-Lundgren
September 15, 2020
I would like to extend my condolences to Nancy and the family. I am really sorry for you loss.
Sincerely, Sharon Taplett-Lundgren
Sherry Lowrey
September 15, 2020
Nancy,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved husband, Mel. You are in my prayers. God bless you and your family during this difficult time and in the days and months ahead. Your friends are here for you.
Sherry
John Wenande
September 15, 2020
Mel was a gem, a gentle soul, the smartest guy in every room, and yet the most competitive nice guy I ever knew. He did not have a mean bone in his body. He was a beautiful man. God will welcome him with open arms. Nancy, Lindsay and Evan, I wish you peace and comfort in your memories.
Molissa, , Sam, Kenney and Pat Sieck
September 15, 2020
Lindsay, our hearts and prayers go out to you and our family. It was obvious through the basketball group that he was very loved and that he also loved his family! Molissa Sieck-Larsen, Kenney and Pat Sieck
Lisa Thimjon
September 15, 2020
Lindsay and Evan, there are truly no words, but I extend my deepest sympathies on the loss of your dad. Growing up I always appreciated his dry wit and gentle manner. May care and love of those around you provide peace and comfort to get you through the days ahead.
Linda Klein
September 15, 2020
Dr. Thomas was my physician for the last 10 years. He was always kind, respectful and compassionate. I enjoyed reading the tribute of his life and certainly was able to witness all of the beautiful talents and qualities that were expressed. I will miss him!
Patty Peters
September 15, 2020
Our sympathy goes out to Nancy and the whole Thomas family. We are thankful for Mel’s work as a physician.
Scott and Patty Peters, M.D.
Ms. Shawn Myhre
September 15, 2020
Dr. Thomas was a mentor to me during my early years as a Nurse Practitioner, a colleague, and in most recent years, my primary care provider. He was an intelligent and astute physician, whose bedside manner was second to none. I admired and respected him. He humbly helped me with countless personal and professional trials over the years. I have always had the utmost respect for he and Nancy. They graciously hosted a lovely Christmas party for our Internal Medicine group one year that included a delicious meal, wine, and a mishap with a chocolate fountain! He will be missed! My deepest condolences to his family. ❤
Julie Bergstrom
September 15, 2020
I pray that the grace Mel exuded throughout his life here provides some comfort for you all. Sending much love.
Donna Reisdorf
September 14, 2020
Dear Thomas family and friends,
You have my deepest sympathy.
Doctor Thomas was a gentle giant with a quick smile. A pleasure to know him and have him as our doctor, he will be greatly missed.
Patient,
Donna Reisdorf
Donna Reisdorf
September 14, 2020
This a terrible loss for all that knew Dr. Thomas. A gentle giant! I am thankful he was our doctor, but will miss his loving care. My prayers and sympathy are with his co-workers, family and family.
Patient,
Donna Reisdorf
Dori Bigner
September 14, 2020
I had the rare honor of having been both colleague and patient of Dr Thomas. He was unusually caring, and will be greatly missed. May Christ comfort your family and friends, and give us peace that passes all understanding until we see you again! Dori B, MD
CHARLA COPE
September 14, 2020
to Dr. Thomas's family: Dr. Thomas was a great physician. He was not my regular physician but he took care of me several times when I was either in the ER or an inpatient and let me just say, more doctors need his caring and compassionate nature. He will truly be missed by me and many others. Know that he made a difference in many lives. Eternal rest grant to Dr. Thomas, Lord. May your perpetual light shine upon him and may he rest in eternal peace.
Tracey Evenson
September 14, 2020
To Nancy and family,
I had the pleasure of sharing many years as Dr. Thomas's nurse. He was dedicated to his work and patient's, as well as his family. I so enjoyed hearing stories about siblings, cousins, and their get togethers, hunting in Murdo, fishing at the lake, etc. He enjoyed working on the cabins and having time with everyone there. He enjoyed gardening and enjoyed hearing new ideas. Dr. Thomas was not one to brag but I was told by many of his patients what a great basketball player he was. He would get shy, blush and look over his glasses and say his other brothers were better than him. Those are just a few of the stories.
Working with him daily was a joy.He was filled with knowledge, professionalism, compassion for his patients. It was a joy and pleasure to work with him and I will miss him.
Carla Taken Alive
September 14, 2020
Condolences to Dr.Thomas family and his children.. You will be missed you was an great doctor am proud to have had you as my doctor for 8yrs i will miss you and never forget your kindness ,and helpfulness , and now you can rest sweet man and wonderful Doctor God bless you , thank you , Carla TA
Dr James and Joan Horning
September 14, 2020
I feel fortunate having known Mel and worked with him for about 10 years. In fact, he got me the job at the SF VA/Med School the second time.
My brother-in-law passed away in Tulsa OK and I told Mel that my sister was down there alone. He said, "Jim, just go." I said I had pre-op clinic with the residents in the morning and then outpatient clinic with the residents in the afternoon. He said, "Jim, just go. We can handle it." I almost get teary-eyed when I think of this.
In 1983 he went to Brookings in private practice and I went to Watertown. We each tried to get the other to go together. Some time later he returned to the VA and I returned in 2000. I think we both left the VA in 2008 although I worked part time in outpatient clinics for 5 years and Mel went to Avera.
I enjoyed his company, his sense of humor, and his politics. He was a good fisherman also. We both enjoyed "Rumpole of the Bailey." He lived with us for 3 months when he was changing his life.
Our condolences to Nancy, Mel's kids, and his siblings. Good people.
Editha and Roberto Anel, MD
September 14, 2020
Our deepest sympathy for the loss of a wonderful person. May his family find comfort in knowing he is with our Lord in a better place.
Edith Liu, MD
September 14, 2020
Dr Mel Thomas was a great clinician. His patients loved him. He was a great role model and inspiration to his peers especially the younger physicians. He had great bedside manners and a sharp clinical eye. He will be missed for sure.
Deloris (Scheidegger) Watts
September 14, 2020
My deepest sympathy to the Thomas family, especially Mary and Gary whom I went to high school with in Hitchcock. I also worked with Dr. Thomas at the VA Hospital for many year. Such a kind man. He will be greatly missed.
Dana Herman
September 14, 2020
I had the privilige of working with Dr. Thomas at Avera - he was truly one of the good ones. My deepest sympathy to his family. May God comfort you during this difficult time.
Alyssa Novotny
September 14, 2020
I had the pleasure of working with Dr Thomas for a year and a half. While it wasn't a long period of time, I always enjoyed talking with him. He was a wonderful man and doctor. He will be greatly missed.
Charlie Luecke
September 14, 2020
We coached our daughters in basketball throughout their elementary and Roosevelt High School off-season years in Sioux Falls. We spent many hours together in gyms, tournaments, and gatherings with their teammates, parents, and high school coaches forging skills, unforgettable memories, and stimulating conversations that transcended hoops. I miss my personal physician who always gave me quality time and service during our sessions. Most of all, I miss my friend. My morning prayer and reflection are in honor of Mel and his loving family.
Bill Walden
September 14, 2020
A heartfelt final goodbye to a terrific caring man. Condolences to his family ,he took very good care of my late wife Veronica and myself for many years.A shining example to all of us to give a little more when we see the need to encourage and uplift others on life's treacherous journey. Thanks, Doctor.
Dale and Skye Thomsen
September 14, 2020
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know we are keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers
Sarah Sporrer
September 14, 2020
I had the privilege with working with Dr. Thomas at Avera McKennan. He was a very caring, compassionate, soft spoken and great listening man. He genuinely cared about his patients. He will be missed by many. Such a great man. Taken to soon. My sympathy to his family.
Nancy Johnson
September 13, 2020
Although Mel had been my doctor for a little less than a year. He was so kind and helpful. I feel we also had the SDSU basketball connection as Mel and two brothers played for my dad. Mel and the whole family are highly respected by the Marking family. He will be missed by many and taken too soon. I had just seen Mel for an appointment 11/2 weeks ago. Praise the Lord as we know Mel is in a better place!
Mrs. Karen Voeltz
September 13, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. He visited me many times when i was hospitalized with Dr Gutnick He was from Alexandria I was from Canistota , so we visited often over our home towns. I will certainly miss his visits. Good man!!
Donald Anderson
September 13, 2020
I had the great privilege to work with Dr. Mel during his tenure at the SFVA Medical Center. He was the Medical Director for our VA during the COPD Research project I was involved in. He always was willing to give a listening ear for any questions my co-workers or I had. If, I saw him other places, he would always stop and talk and check up on my family. He will be missed by all of his patients and collegues.
Patricia Wasser
September 13, 2020
I knew Mel in college at SDSU in Brookings. What I remember most about Mel was his kindness and gentleness. He was an amazing athlete, yet always humble. I had no idea Mel had become a physician. I can think of no career better suited to him. His empathy and sincere interest in people's stories must have touched many many lives. Rest in peace Mel.
JOHN RYAN
September 13, 2020
I was privileged to work with Dr Mel for many years as a physician.
He was a strong yet gentle and kind person. Patient and always helpful.
He was dignified and carried himself with a calm and measured sense of commitment . Mel was very helpful to the Surgical service at the VA hospital in Sioux Falls for many years and as a colleague at Avera McKennan .
I am greatly saddened at the passing of this good man..
May he Rest in Peace in God's love.
Cam Lind
September 13, 2020
One of the hardest working Jack Rabbits of all time, great player and great player. May he REST IN PEACE.
David Ohrt
September 13, 2020
Dear Family
Please accept our deepest sympathy on the passing of Mel. He was my Doctor and I (David) will miss him a great deal. May he rest in peace.
David and Val Ohrt
Cindy Buss
September 13, 2020
To the family of Dr. Melvin Thomas,
It is with great sadness I read of his death. I have been a patient of his for many years, he is a very caring, compassionate, soft spoken and great listening man. He genuinely cared about his patients. We always joked about the next visit. See you next year were my last words to him and he said I sure hope so. I won't forget those. You have my deepest sympathy. He will be hard to replace as I find a new caring doctor to take his place. A great loss for Avera.
Renita Monkelien
September 12, 2020
Dear Family,
You have our deepest sympathy during this difficult time. Sincerely
David and Renita Monkelien
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Heritage Funeral Home and Cremation Services - Sioux Falls4800 S Minnesota Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD 57108
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