Ivan “Bill” Thomas passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2017, surrounded by his family. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 11, at the Linden Valley LDS Chapel, 971 Timberland Road, with visitation one hour prior. Burial will follow at the Show Low Cemetery. Bill, or Billy as he was known to most of his friends, was born in Snowflake to Vada Rogers Thomas and William Wood Thomas on Jan. 12, 1943. He was a beloved husband, son, brother, uncle and grandfather. He also had many lifetime friends, as he lived most of his life here in the White Mountains. As a young man, Bill served in the United States Army, and he was a great mechanic, logger and welder. Bill loved to hunt, and he passed that love of hunting along to his children and grandchildren. He leaves behind his wife of 45 years, Pamela Rogers Thomas; three daughters, Kimberly Thomas Chappell of Show Low, Jennifer Thomas of Linden and Lynn Hanson of Pahrump, Nevada; and a son, Jessie Hanson of San Tan Valley. Bill was very close to his family. He also leaves behind his brother, Larrie Thomas of Las Vegas, Nev., and sisters, Delonna Oskouee of Tucson, Nelcine Holland of Phoenix and Jenene Gilpin of Linden, in addition to numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughters, Karen and Melanie; and his son, Chris. Everyone who remembers Bill is encouraged to celebrate his life in their own way, because Bill lived a good life and he will be remembered as a storyteller, a great father and good friend. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to help the family. Owens Livingston Mortuary of Show Low was in charge of the arrangements.
