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BORN
1950
DIED
2021
John Thomas Obituary
Des Moines - On Saturday, January 30th, 2021, John Thomas, or "JT" as most knew him, of Des Moines, Iowa passed away peacefully after his 13 year battle with cancer.
John was born August 27th, 1950 to Harold and Donna Thomas of Norwalk, Iowa. His legacy will live on through his many loving friends and family. Among those who miss him dearly are, his best friend and partner of over twenty year, Terri Woods, son James Thomas, daughter Tari Sharman (Ben) and his five grandchildren Jadalyn, Jamen, Engeland, Neves and Preston. Also left to cherish his memory are his brother Steve (Charlene) and children; Frank (Collette) and Maggie.
John graduated from Norwalk (1968) enjoying his classmates and playing baseball, basketball and golf. One of his High School highlights was having 49 rebounds and 27 points in one game. He also attended Grand View College (1968-1970) playing baseball and basketball. He was an avid golfer later in life achieving three hole in one's.
John was a proud member of Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 33 for 42 years. He was also a member of The Des Moines Power Boat Club since 1980.
John loved Mexico making over fifty trips throughout his life. John and Terri also spent the last eight winters in Naples, Florida in their RV. John's passions were music, sporting events, NHRA and travel. Most important were the valuable friendships he made along the way.
John knew no stranger and was a friend to all. He was the "Where's Waldo" in every crowd. Everywhere you would go, there he was. John would want to be remembered by looking for him in the people and family he knew and loved.
A celebration of life to be announced at a later date.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Thomas
Sponsored by the Des Moines Register.
JoAnn McVicker
May 24, 2023
John was a good friend and I will always remember how much fun we had throughout the years. Cheers and tears for you John. You are missed.
David Wright
July 7, 2021
I left a message on his phone after I heard of JTs passing. It´s been 5 months and I still feel sad when I think of him, so I know his family must feel terrible. I and JT became friends while working at the Salisbury House . I worked for Weitz and his knowledge in his field and ability to work with others made a sometimes seemingly impossible job to be completed. Friends Forever
Joe altomari
March 20, 2021
I can´t believe he´s gone I´m known John and his brother Steve a long long time I´ve known a lot of Norwalk people Norwalk and the southside Just came together I will really miss John I´m sure everybody will
Joe Rauch
February 12, 2021
Fun guy and a good friend and will be missed by those that knew him. May he Rest In Peace! Prayers and condolences to Terri and family!
Steve
February 6, 2021
Sorry to see of John's passing. He was always fun to work with and always had a great sense of humor. We just called him haystacks. I will miss running into him.
Claire Seely
February 4, 2021
Rick and I were JT’s neighbors on Waveland Court for almost 16 years. We will forever be expecting to run into him at Kelly’s in KC at the Big 12 Basketball Tournament. Our condolences to Terri and his family.
Cali
February 4, 2021
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Jadalyn Thomas
February 4, 2021
He’s a loving person he will be missed very much
Jon Emm
February 4, 2021
I met John at Kyle and Avery's wedding in Mexico. what a great time we all had and it was a pleasure hanging out with him. Sympathies to all who loved him and may he rest in peace.
Frank Vito
February 4, 2021
I met John many years ago. I played softball with John for a couple of years. It was always great to run in to him at various social events (Iowa state fair, Italian Festival, ball games , concerts, etc.) John was a wonderful guy and one of friendliest people I have ever known. My sincere condolences to Terri and his family. May he Rest In Peace.
Joseph Freylack
February 4, 2021
I knew Jt most of my life through the river. Lot of gut laughter, quick wit and a true pleasure to be with! Jt was a lot like his boat...sharp cool comfortable fun Reliable and always filled with sunshine! Jt will always have a warm spot in my heart Long live John Thomas!!
Pat Brandt
February 3, 2021
John was a great guy! My sympathy to brother Steve and his family. Thinking and praying for you all.
Marty and Gwenna Davis
February 3, 2021
Sorry to hear about John. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family and all who knew John.
Tom Leonetti
February 3, 2021
JT's Family:
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
I knew JT from years of playing softball. He was a great competitor, but an even better friend. I always looked forward to seeing John at the games and having a few beers and shooting the breeze after.
Thank You for your years of friendship JT. You will be sorely missed
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