Robert Earl Thomas Sr. went home to be with the Lord on December 17th, 2016, at the age of 85. Robert was born on April 20th, 1931 to William and Mary Rosetta Thomas, in Neillsville, WI. Robert was the youngest of 7 children. His early years were spent helping his dad on the dairy farm in Greenwood WI.
In 1952 he married Marlene Ruosch in Woodville and continued farming, where they had 3 of their 4 children. In 1956 he moved his family to St. Paul and began working for Mack Trucks, as a Diesel Mechanic.
In 1960 they moved to Hudson, had their 4th child, and started “Thomas Mobile Home Service”. In the mid-1970s, Robert began building log homes, as well. His hard work and success awarded him a vacation to Mexico, and also travelled to Germany in 1975. Robert enjoyed traveling, especially to visit family and friends, blessing them with his gift of helps.
In 1983 Robert married Phyllis Helmueller. They resided in Beldenville, and utilized their passions and gifts, operating “Country Music Tours” to Branson, MO, from 1990-1995. Robert often said that the tours were the most fun job he ever had! The “Snowbirds” soon migrated to Apache Junction, AZ. for 14 winters. In 2007 Robert and Phyllis sold their home in AZ, allowing more time for tending wild birds and flower gardening, which they both greatly enjoyed. His love of people was demonstrated by his generosity with his time and talent, and was surpassed only by his love for the Lord. He valued his church and served whole-heartedly. Robert was preceded in death by his son Daniel Lee Thomas, his mother and father, all four brothers, and both sisters. Left to honor and remember his love are his wife Phyllis, 4 step-sons, Kevin Helmueller, Barry (Toni) Helmueller, Shawn Helmueller, Jay (Michelle) Helmueller, 12 step- grandchildren, many step-great grandchildren, Robert’s first wife, Marlene (Rich), three children, Charlene Thompson, Robert (Rachel) Thomas Jr, Denise (Patrick) Heiderscheid, six grandchildren, Jason (Diana) Ewing, Jolene (Chris) Holly, Jeremy Ewing, Sheena Thompson, Megan (Dustin) Hoffstrom, Arianne Thompson, sister-in-law Mary Thomas, nephews, nieces, cousins and many friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Thursday, January 12th, 2017, at Crossroad Community Church, W7562 US-10, Ellsworth, WI 54011, crossroadcc.info
The service will begin at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour prior. Fellowship and lunch will follow.
Condolences and Memorials may be sent to Hill Funeral Home,130 North Grant St. Ellsworth, WI 54011, hillfuneralservice.com