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Kyle Thomas Obituary

Former Topekan Kyle Gregory Thomas, 23, Louisville, Ky., was killed in action Sept. 25, 2003, in Iraq. He was born Nov. 27, 1979, in Olathe, the son of Raymond L. and Deborah Thomas. Kyle was a 1998 graduate of Topeka West High School. While in high school, Kyle was involved in football, wrestling, theater, yell leading, stage craft, woodworking and photography. Kyle danced for Metropolitan Ballet of Topeka, and earned scholarships to the Rock School of Pennsylvania Ballet. He danced with Boca Ballet Theater, Florida, the Dayton Ballet Company, Ohio, and Evansville Dance Theater, Indiana. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on Jan. 22, 2002, in Topeka. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, Able Company, based in Ford Ederle, Italy. He married his longtime friend, Carissa Marie Dyke, on July 6, 2002, in Topeka. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Clara Hohner Thomas, St. John; Ira L. and Shirley J. Thomas, Moline; and his uncle, Gregory Kent Thomas, Salina. Survivors are his wife, Carissa Thomas, Louisville, Ky.; his father, Raymond Thomas, Topeka, and his mother, Deborah Thomas, Goshen, Ind.; his brother, Craig Thomas, Topeka; and his grandmother, Sadie Buster, Colton, Calif. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 10, 2003, at St. Matthews Church, 2700 S.E. Virginia, Topeka. Burial with full military honors will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, Topeka. Kyle will lie in state from 1 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel. Memorial contributions may be given to the Kansas Childrens Service League, 3616 S.W. Topeka Blvd., Topeka, 66611, in support of abused and neglected children.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Topeka Capital-Journal on Oct. 5, 2003.

Memories and Condolences
for Kyle Thomas

Not sure what to say?





May 25, 2016

We will never forget you, Kyle Thomas.
We honor your sacrifice. Mom of a paratrooper 173rd Linda S.

Michael Hastings

May 5, 2016

A little early, but I'll be remembering Kyle this Memorial Day in 2016. I'll never forget his sacrifice and that of his entire family.

Pam Martin

November 7, 2013

A life well lived is never forgotten. Never ending thanks for Spc. Thomas.

September 11, 2013

In memory and honor of Kyle and his sacrifice for our country.

Linda Banker

May 28, 2013

Greetings of great love from Kentuckiana, friends. After Mass at the Cathedral in Louisville on Memorial Day, we were invited to list names of loved ones, I placed Kyle's name in the book of prayer, and all of his family and friends are remembered in prayer. The couple who carried the gifts to the altar...I noticed she wore a pin with a picture....at the sign of peace, I learned it was her son, David, a Marine, KIA 2005. Ironically, I had attended his funeral there at the Cathedral. God's family is one of great love. Know we love the Thomas family so very much and are so sorry for your loss. Your loss is our loss - just like Kyle's fishing buddy.

Charlie

May 27, 2013

I always shead a tear on this day and many others. To a fishing buddy that cannot be replaced. There biting and your not here to go. I hope heaven has a big pond and you don't run out of bait. Miss ya bud

Marsha Dryden

May 27, 2013

de





Deb, Raymond and Family, On this 2013 Memorial Day I light a candle in honor and in rememberance of Kyle. His life and service to our country will not be forgotten.

Linda Banker

September 10, 2012

Cari~ Deb & Raymond ~ Craig, Kylee Grace~
September arrives again, , , but we honor Kyle's memory and your sacrifice each day we live in freedrom. We will never forget, and please know each of you is lifted UP in prayer many, many times throughout many, many days and nights. God bless you and keep you.

Amy

September 8, 2012

Deb and Raymond-- As Kyle's anniversary approaches, I thought I would let you know how much he is still thought of and missed. God Bless you and your family. Love you!

Raymond/Deborah/Craig Thomas

June 20, 2012

Thanks for your caring and love. Kyle continues to impact our lives daily.

Cari Thomas

June 19, 2012

Thank you to all of you for not forgetting Kyle. He is always with us guiding us to do the right thing. Sometimes it feels like yesterday he was taken from us and other days it's feels like forever ago. I love you Kyle! My love goes out to all who knew Kyle and loved him.

Michael Hastings

June 17, 2012

I thought about Kyle today, as the Army has us moving once again. As I was putting away some things, I picked up his memorial bracelet and stared at it for awhile. Then I read through the program from his Memorial in Iraq. Doesn't seem that long ago...to the Thomas family and especially Cari- my thoughts are with you today. God Bless.

Brian Smith

October 18, 2011

I miss you old friend, its been eight years, so much has changed and yet much has stayed the same. Know that you will never be forgotten.

Wyatt Johnston

September 26, 2011

The amazing impact you had on my life and many others continues to shine. You will always be missed!

Cari Thomas

September 25, 2011

Kyle I love you and miss you. Your loving wife

Peggy Childers

September 25, 2011

To the family and friends of Spc. Kyle G. Thomas:
Please accept my remembrance of Kyle on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

Paula Vesta

September 10, 2011

I thought about you today- and almost everyday for the past 8 years. I am so glad we knew you and were a part of your life and your were a part of ours. I am glad we were privlaged to catch a glimps of the call God placed on your life. Thanks for following the call and your example to my children of not only following the call of God, but also what the call of God could cost and willingly laying aside your desires for His. For choosing to fight for freedom and what was right even though you knew the cost would be great. As our nation remember the day that started your journey, I remember your life and your dreams. You will never be forgotten.

linda banker

September 27, 2010

Deb, Raymond & all of Kyle's family and friends, especially his 173rd family. Have had you all in my thoughts and prayers through the weekend. with great love and devotion, we acknowledge Kyle's sacrifice and your loss. bankers from indiana, another 173rd airborne mom

Deborah Thomas

September 25, 2010

Seven years behind us. We miss you like crazy. I remain thankful for your love, honor and sense of duty; your faith in God and your pride in being from the great state of Kansas.

Peggy Childers

September 25, 2010

To the family and friends of Spc. Kyle G. Thomas:
Remembering Kyle on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

Kenna Larra

January 4, 2010

”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to the hero’s Mother, Father and/or spouse. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,850 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
This is a gift! We have some wonderful sponsors who help with the costs, and only want you know that we care.
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna

Peggy Childers

September 25, 2009

To the family of Spc. Kyle G. Thomas:
Kyle gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

September 21, 2009

Deb and Raymond, Craig, Carie
You are in our thoughts and prayers as Kyle's anniversary approaches. There is no greater love than this - Kyle laid down his life for his fellow man - and is in GLORY GLORY GLORY. May God's peace and comfort be yours. Much Love, Dan and LLu

Armand Artinian

May 23, 2009

You will always be remembered. Rest in piece brother.

Deb Yashinski

December 24, 2008

Dear Kyle, Merry Christmas. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with your family today. Love Mommaski

Chad Garinger

November 11, 2008

Thomas Family & Friends,

Today and often I remember the smile and spunk of Kyle. He was talented and helpful and a joy to serve with at our church. I pray God's peace and comfort reaches you today and always. Kyle is my hero. I live to serve as he lived to serve. May God bless you with His presence today and always.

Pastor Chad

Linda Banker

September 26, 2008

Deb, Raymond, Carie & Craig & Kylee.
May God's comfort be yours. September 25, 2003 your angel was flying in a new place, in a new way.
Thank you for your sacrifice so that we may all live in freedom.
Lbanker & family

In Memory of Kyle ~ (Debra Estep)

September 25, 2008

Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.


The Wind on The Downs

“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”

(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )

Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….

“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”


I did not know Kyle, but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Other Side

i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.

can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.

i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side

the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)

“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008


The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol



Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB

Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55

Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b

November 20, 2007

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Spc Thomas!

Tom Gugliuzza-Smith

November 10, 2007

My heartfelt sympathy to the Thomas family in the loss of Kyle. I did not know Kyle, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you. Kyle it has been over 4 years since you were taken. Please know that you are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom

"To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~

Angie and Adam Connell

September 4, 2007

My name is Angelina and my fiance, Adam Connell was with Kyle in Iraq. They were very close, so close that we've named our son after him. We would like to contact the family to let them know this and how much Kyle ment to Adam. If anyone has any information about a way for us to contact his family please email us [email protected] thank you so much.

August 6, 2007

I don't pretend to know what to say or do that would bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.

Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.

I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON (KIA on 07/06/07) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.

REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!

PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)

July 7, 2007

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Spc Thomas and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless you all!!

McCool Family

June 18, 2007

THE FINAL INSPECTION

The soldier stood and faced God,

Which must always come to pass.

He hoped his shoes were shining,

Just as brightly as his brass.


"Step forward now, you soldier,

How shall I deal with you?

Have you always turned the other cheek?

To My Church have you been true?"


The soldier squared his shoulders and said,

"No, Lord, I guess I ain't.

Because those of us who carry guns,

Can't always be a saint.

I've had to work most Sundays,

And at times my talk was tough.

And sometimes I've been violent,

Because the world is awfully rough.

But, I never took a penny,

That wasn't mine to keep.

Though I worked a lot of overtime,

When the bills got just too steep.

And I never passed a cry for help,

Though at times I shook with fear.

And sometimes, God, forgive me,

I've wept unmanly tears.

I know I don't deserve a place,

Among the people here.

They never wanted me around,

Except to calm their fears.

If you've a place for me here, Lord,

It needn't be so grand.

I never expected or had too much,

But if you don't, I'll understand."


There was a silence all around the throne,

Where the saints had often trod.

As the soldier waited quietly

For the judgement of his God.


"Step forward now, you soldier,

You've borne your burdens well.

Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets,

You've done your time in Hell."

~Author Unknown~


Our deepest sympathy to the Thomas Family and greatest gratitude to young Spc. Kyle G. Thomas, United States Army.

Linda Flannery

June 3, 2007

Remembering and honoring a brave soldier. May you rest in peace and know that my flag flies in your honor.

Jennifer Shick

May 29, 2007

To the Family: I didn't know Kyle, but this past weekend, my husband and I participated in the 20th Annivery of Rolling Thunder in DC, where I met one of Kyle's NCO's, where he praised this young man for everything he has done for our country. I, to this day honor your son by wearing a commemorative bracelet in his memory. I am so sorry for your loss, your son was a true hero. God Bless to you and your family. ~ J. Shick ~

Gary Allain

April 4, 2007

Spc. Kyle G. Thomas
you are my hero
may god keep you in his arms forever.

December 29, 2006

To the family of:Spc Kyle G. Thomas I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. My heart cries out for you in your grief and you have my thoughts and prayers. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayerfully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need prayer or need someone to talk to, please call or write my pastor: Rev. John Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015. Your friend in Jesus Christ, Polly Ballew Covington,Ga

Linda Bates-Banker

October 18, 2006

Deb, Raymond, Brother & Wife,
I can't believe it's been 3 years. My son, Luke, was in 173rd in Kirkuk . . . . we call out your names at our dinner table often in prayer. We are so sorry for your loss of Kyle, but know you are proud that he was honorable and dedicated to what he was doing. . . thank you for the sacrifice so that we may live in freedom. Linda Banker & Family

Garnet Jenkins

September 25, 2006

In Tribute to Spc. Kyle G. Thomas on this 3rd anniversary of the day he gave his life for our country, may he rest in the Loving Care of God and know that he is a True American hero, that shall NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
I Pray that God's Loving Grace and Comfort will continue to be with the Thomas family.
There will never be enough ways,
to humbly thank these Heroes,
for their Supreme Sacrifice,
my brother among them. KIA-Vietnam 1967.

Those we love remain with us, for love itself lives on...
And cherished memories never fade, because a loved one's gone....
Those we love can never be, more than a thought apart....
For as long as there is memory, They'll live on in the heart.

May the memories of your loved one, live in your heart always.
I am truly sorry for the loss of this remarkable young man.

Tim Phelps

December 10, 2005

Freedom. I commend Kyle and his family for their hard work and pain for our country's continued freedom. Kyle and I went to high school together and we spent many lunches together waiting in the Taco Bell drive through. He will be missed. May God continue to bless his family and our great country.

John Coleman

November 29, 2005

I did not know Spc. Thomas, but I want to let him know that from the bottom of my heart, I thank him for protecting my freedom. My condolences.

F.H. Theodore Condit

October 10, 2005

I was in Kyle's Platoon when he passed. I had just arrived, but I knew him from before. He took over the machine gun team that had previously been manned by my bravo team leader. I remember everyone was very excited about his promotion to team leader, they expected great things out of him. I was in the safe house the night the IED went off. The trucks had just left the house and as soon as the bomb went off we knew something was wrong. It is a shame the things that happen to good men, but Kyle will always be remembered as a good man, a good soldier and a great paratrooper! My regards go out to all of his family.

Ernesto Perez

September 25, 2005

Today I sit back and remember a great man. I served with Kyle in Able Co 2/503rd. I still remember the day he came into the unit. He was a good soldier. On March 26, 2003, we jumped in Iraq. That nite I have a memory of Kyle. I was one of the frist soldiers to have found our AP. I was given the task to find some of our fellow soldiers. The Mud presented a battle in its self. From a distance I saw a image of a person on his knees. Slowy the person was getting closer. After about 10 mins, I went out to see what was wrong. There I found Klye. He had been a little hurt. He was rolling his ruck sack in the mud. He was very happy to see me. So I helped him up and carried his ruck. I will never forget his power to go on. He never gave up that nite. I was also there the night he was taken from us. My Squad was the other patrol squad that nite. I'm sorry that I can't share this story with you, but it still is hard to share. Kyle was a great soldier and even more a man. I am proud to say I served with Him.

Mac & Susan Orsbon

May 29, 2005

Spc. Thomas made the ultimate sacrifice to ensure our freedom and the freedom of unborn generations of Americans. Our family will honor his sacrifice and his memory on this and every Memorial Day and we will remember him in our prayers. Our prayers are also with his family.

Rick Wilson

May 29, 2005

Raymond @ Debbie.



At this time of year. My thoughts go towards those for whom I've known all my life. Especially those for which have been a part of my life. This is to include as part of my family. Such as yours. I had also recently heard about the fire in your home. I am grateful that everyone is OK. This will be the first time since I was in California in the Mariens for which I won't go to Moline on Memorial weekend. Just wanted you to know that the Thomas family was on my mind. As they always have. With thegodd times we've had over the past 50 plus years. ave a good day.

Ashley Miner

April 2, 2005

Kyle was my best friend. It has been a year and a half since his death and I still think about him every day. There were so many wonderful things about Kyle it is hard to sum them all up in one entry. He was daring, caring, hilarious, goofy, strong. He was a friend and a brother and a husband to an awesome little woman. He helped me when times were rough and always added spice to whatever we were getting into. He is absolutely irreplaceable. I loved him so much and I will forever feel disheartened that I was unable to grow old with him. Much love to Deb, Ray and all the family and friends he left behind. Much love to Kyle, may he have as much fun in the afterlife as he had here with us.

Andy, Terry, Kelsey & kinsey Williams

October 21, 2003

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas,



We all wanted to send our condolensces to you and your family on the loss of your son. We were a part of your school family for several years and are living out of state, but heard about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through this time. God Bless all of you. The Williams Family, Russellville, AR

Kathy Dix-Bunker

October 14, 2003

Sorry for the lost of your son. You're in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you and your family.

MIKE MCCARBREY

October 10, 2003

I SERVED WITH THE 173RD IN 1967 IN VIETNAM. I WAS WOUNDED ON NOV. 6TH 1967. I LOST SEVERAL FRIENDS WHILE SERVING WITH THE 173RD. THE MEMORY NEVER GOES AWAY AND I GET TEARS IN MY EYES EVERY DAY. MY HEART GOES OUT TO ALL OF KYLES FRIENDS AND FAMILY. I KNOW HE IS IN GOOD COMPANY NOW , HE IS WITH MY BROTHERS. I WILL BE ATTENDING KYLES SERVICES THIS MORNING.

Dawn & Ed Parker

October 9, 2003

To my extended family:

I just want you to know that the Parker Family are thinking about you. I wish that I could be with you in your time of need. Just know that we have you in our prayers, and that we love you all. If you need anything (I mean anything please don't hesitate to call me). Keep God in your life and he will pull you through. Love you!

Parker Family,

Ed, Dawn, Ashlay, Amber & Aubree

Dorothy Dolsky

October 9, 2003

I am a stranger who only knows Kyle because of the sacrifice he made for me and all Americans. I want to thank you for raising such a brave young man and to express my sympathy in your time of sorrow. May God give you strength to face each day and peace of mind knowing that Kyle is rejoicing in heaven with God, Jesus, and the angels.

John Wilson

October 9, 2003

Raymond and Debbie:

I was extremely sorry to hear of your son's untimely death in Iraq. My thoughts and prayers have been with you and your family for all those days. The last time I was with you was for your mom Shirley's funeral at Moline. I cherish our visit then, especially when you told me of your pending retirement from 32 years in education. I, too, am retiring after this year right along with you. I'm sorry that Theresa and I could not make it for the services. Mike and Diana are planning to be there Friday. Again, you are in our thoughts and prayers constantly.

Your life-long friend and classmate at Moline High School,

John Wilson

Lina Ossiander

October 9, 2003

Dear Family,



I am so sorry for your loss and pray that the memories will help ease your pain.



Lina Ossiander (Collin's Mom)

Christina Weinbeck

October 9, 2003

I am so sorry for you loss. I danced with Kyle at Junes, I will always remember him with his smile, and his big jumps. He did something inceredible for his country and I am so thankful. What a great son and husband, and ecspecially a friend. I send all my thoughts and prayers your way.

With all my love

Christina Weinbeck

MeLissa Williams

October 9, 2003

To The Parents and Family:

We live in Evansville, Indiana. Our daughter, Shayna Williams had your son and daughter-in-law as instructors and danced with them. Kyle always brought a smile to our family's face when he was around. We shared many good times together with him and Cari. We are so sorry for your loss.We were so proud of him as a dancer and serving our country. He will always remain special to the Williams hearts and memories. He will never be forgotten because he did touch so many lives and hearts. All Our Prayers and Love, Steve, MeLissa and Shayna Williams

Warren & Diane Koker

October 9, 2003

Dearest friends, We are remembering you and praying that God will sustain you and give you peace, comfort, strength and grace in these difficult days and months ahead....You are special to us and so was Kyle.....He is at rest and home with Jesus...we know he will be missed....Our heartfelt love & sympathy is with you and also with his wife and brother, Craig....Love always, Rev. Warren & Diane Koker

Beccy Tanner

October 9, 2003

Debra,

The Raymond Tanner family is so sad. Alice and Norman Cooper told us the news. Although we did not know Kyle, we know you and we know about some of the pain you've had in life. We are so sorry Kyle died so young.And we are so grateful that you've shared stories about Kyle -- so we could understand what an exceptional man he was. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you.

SHERRY TEVIS

October 9, 2003

OUR FAMILY PRAYS FOR YOU & YOUR FAMILY ON YOUR LOSS OF YOUR SON - NOTHING CAN EVER REPLACE A CHILD IN YOUR LIFE - WE ONLY HOPE THAT IN TIME YOUR LOSS WILL BECOME A LITTLE EASIER, BUT IT WILL TAKE TIME. IT SEEMS HE WAS A GREAT MAN & ACCOMPLISHED MANY THINGS - YOU CAN BE PROUD TO KNOW WE THANK HIM FOR ALL THAT HE HAS DONE FOR TOPEKA & THE UNITED STATES.



OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU,

SHERRY, RICK, ASHLEY & ANDREW TEVIS

Beverly Vera

October 7, 2003

Raymond and Deborah,

I didnt get to know your son 1st hand but I did have the pleasure of seeing him dance and that I will never forget. From everything Ive heard and read, he was a very special young man. Im sure you are very proud of kyle and everything he stood for. We are all grateful for the sacrifice he made for this country. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Beverly Vera, Mother of Bishop student Jordyn Vera

Rhonda Han

October 6, 2003

We have thought about you so often since the news of Kyle's death first appeared in the news. You parented a wonderful Christian young man, and we thank God that our grandsons have/had a wonderful Christian principal. You are in our hearts and prayers. God Bless You.

Rhonda and Kevin Han

Judy Salmon

October 6, 2003

I have never had the pleasure of meeting or knowing Kyle but from everything I have read, he was an exceptional young man and I want his family to know how much I appreciate the ultimate sacrifice that he made. May God bless you and may you find peace in him and the many wonderful memories Kyle and your family shared.

Edith Davey

October 6, 2003

I met Kyle several times as he was a great friend of my nephew, Jeff Dickinson. He was so engaging and pleasant - delighted to play with the babies in the house and friendly to the older folks, too.

It grieves my heart that he won't be popping in wearing his ragged jeans and shining smile. We will remember him fondly.

Edith (Dickinson) Davey

Jennifer Nail

October 5, 2003

I am very sorry for your loss. I graduated from high school in Topeka and had several friends from Topeka West. I hope you find some comfort knowing strangers from around the country are thinking about you and praying for you. God Bless...

Lindsay Hisel-Ransom

October 5, 2003

I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss. I graduated in Kyle's class at TWHS. Kyle will be remembered as very talented, kind, caring, fun-loving, and dedicated. I will always remember the sacrifice Kyle made for a bigger cause and I will always remain in awe of his bravery and commitment. His absence will forever be felt and acknowledged at every TWHS 1998 class reunion and our fun memories of him will be fondly cherished.

Lindsay Hisel-Ransom, class of 1998

Wes & Sandy Dain

October 5, 2003

You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

robert brougher

October 5, 2003

I did not know Kyle, but reading about him makes me think he was an artistic, talented and highly motivated person.

Freedom is not free. I am very sad about his loss and cannot imagine your pain.

I wanted to say "Thank you" for him and for his service to our country. May you find comfort in knowing others are sharing in your sorrow.

Pam & Romar Swarner

October 4, 2003

To Kyle's Family: We are so very sorry for your loss. Kyle was a Hero and shall be missed. He gave his life for our Country and our freedom. When I see combat boots from now on, I will think of Kyle and the final chapter in his book. Our Son Tyler, also jumped into Iraq with the 173rd. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God bless you. Pam & Romar Swarner and Spc. Tyler Swarner

Linda Tweedy

October 4, 2003

Raymond and Deb,

I didn't know your son, but from the kind and proud words said about him, he must have been a joy. May the Lord comfort you with many happy memories. It doesn't come as a surprise to me how well thought of he was. I knew his Dad when he was Kyle's age. Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Linda Tweedy

GLENOLA SPRAGUE

October 4, 2003

I WANT TO EXPRESS MY SINCERE SYMPATHY IN YOUR GREAT LOSS. HE WAS A VERY BRAVE GENTLEMAN AND I APPRECIATE ALL HIS CONTRIBUTIONS TO OUR FREEDOM HERE IN AMERICA. I CURRENTLY HAVE MANY FRIENDS OVER SEAS ALSO.

Bill Halvorsen

October 4, 2003

To Kyle's family: We are very sorry about your loss, but we deeply appreciate his service and sacrifices for us. My son, Reed Halvorsen, was in his company in Iraq. I have information from the 173rd BDE's family support group about Kyle if you would like it. Please feel free to contact me. All of us feel your loss, and want to help in any way that we can. You can be very proud of your son. We are.

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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Kyle's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

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Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

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Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

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The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

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Ways to honor Kyle Thomas's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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