John Michael Thrasher

John Michael Thrasher
September 23, 1943 - June 29, 2021
Wichita, Kansas - John left this earth to walk the streets of heaven on June 29, 2021. With his wife and daughter by his side, he passed away knowing how loved and treasured he was. John was born September 22, 1943 in Harrisburg, PA, the son of Louise Amelia Leo. His childhood years were spent in Pennsylvania. The years following high school provided an opportunity to join the Air Force, and John found himself stationed at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita. It was during his time in Kansas that he met and married his first wife, Paula Kay Hunt. Together, they had one daughter, Cristy Marie. She quickly became his favorite baseball game partner, and many a weekend found them at the ball field together. On March 18, 1993, John married Donna Lee Talbot and they enjoyed many beautiful years together in Wichita. John had an amazing work ethic and retired from a 32 1/2-year career at Wonder Bread and 15 years at the Kansas Turnpike. Family was very important to John and he was an amazing grandfather to his six granddaughters, Cassoday, Abby, Anna, Ellie, Chloe and Clair. They adored him so very much. He is survived by his wife, Donna; daughter, Cristy Harder; granddaughters, Cassoday, Abby, Anna, Ellie, Chloe and Clair Harder; mother-in-law, Rose Talbot; brother-in-law, Mike Talbot; sister-in-law, Carol Talbot; nephews Eric Reese and Matthew Frank; half-sisters, Betsey Wisener and Belinda Thrasher-Glencoe; nephew Steven Glencoe and a multitude of family and friends. John was preceded in death by his mother, Louise Amelia Leo; grandfather Michael Leo; grandmother, Concetta Conte'; nephew Joshua James; and sisters Joan Mohn and Dolores Lesh. A Celebration of Life will be held at Lakeview Gardens in Wichita at 3 pm, Friday, July 9, 2021. Viewing prior to service from 2-3 pm. The family would like to extend gratitude to those who walked alongside us and offered support and love during this time. John's memory and legacy will live on, and he will never be forgotten.