Ronald L. Thomas, age 85 of Monroe, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 in his home surrounded by his loving family.
Born November 10, 1939 in Pineville, KY, Ron was the son of the late Claude and Mary (Maiden) Thomas. He attended Lincoln Elementary School and graduated from Monroe High School in 1958. Many did not know Ron was an incredible athlete in high school where he was named Captain of the football and swimming teams.
Ron took one look at Connie Weiss at a local dance and knew they were destined for a lifetime of love. They were married on November 28, 1959 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monroe. They raised three children and enjoyed 62 years of marriage until Connie passed on June 21, 2021. Together they traveled extensively, visiting their two sons while serving in the U.S. Air Force.
As a young man, Ron helped Connie's grandfather in commercial fishing. He then started working at Ace Paper Products where he was instrumental in organizing their local labor union. After completing an apprenticeship program as a Tool & Die Maker at Ford Motor Company, he remained employed there for 31 ½ years, retiring as a Tool & Die Repairman.
Ron was a unique and talented individual. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed all kinds of fishing and hunting, especially bird hunting. He would often perform with his daughter's band, "Hoozier Daddy" singing favorites like Sweet Caroline and Margaritaville. Ron would also entertain by singing and acting at local fundraising events which were usually written by Connie. He had a passion for wine making and made the best jerky too. He loved to tell jokes and was often the "life of the party".
Ron was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Monroe Council 1266 Knights of Columbus, and Honorary member of Monroe VFW Post 1138. He was a former member of the Monroe County Rod and Gun Club, Canvas Back Gun Club, Moose Family Lodge 884, and the Elks Club.
Ron will be remembered as a loving family man, "Papa" to his grandchildren, a caring neighbor, and friend to many.
Ron is survived by his son, Timothy (Sandra) Thomas; daughter, LeeAnn (Randy) Bass; brother, Kenny Thomas; five grandchildren: Emilee (Colton) Kloster, Ron (Blake) Thomas, Ashley (Evan) Pape, Brandon Thomas, and Laney Bass; five great-grandchildren: Haylee and Thomas Kloster, Asher and Ford Thomas, and Levi Pape.
In addition to his parents and wife, Ron is preceded in death by a son, Ronald E. "Ronnie" Thomas; three brothers, James, Charlie, and Jerry Thomas; and sister, Betty Jones.
Family and friends may visit from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, Mar. 24th at Bacarella Funeral Home. Ron will lie in state Tuesday at 10 a.m. at St. John Catholic Church where services will begin at 11 a.m. Deacon Mike Stewart will officiate followed by burial at St. Joseph Cemetery.
For anyone wishing to make a donation in memory of Ron, the family recommends supporting St. John the Baptist Parish.
Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page at www.bacarellafuneralhome.com .