Gary Edward Thomas passed away peacefully at home on Friday, December 13, 2024. He was born in Missoula, MT on November 29, 1941 at St. Patrick’s Hospital to Edward and Lena Thomas.
Gary was a Montanan through and through. He attended the University of Montana, receiving his BS in Music Education + MEd in Guidance & Counseling. He worked throughout the state, later moving to Washington State where he finished his career as a High School Counselor and then retiring in 2001 to be near family in Stevensville, MT.
His heart was in the mountains and in the rivers. Gary loved being outdoors in his time as a Wilderness Ranger and as an educator. Many young people benefitted from time spent with Gary pursuing outdoor activities, building skills, and just having fun. To fulfill his childhood dreams, Gary became an accomplished sailor, sailing to Alaska, Canada, Mexico, and Hawaii. He was also a crewmember on the tall ship Lady Washington.
He loved his quiet times fly-fishing on all of the rivers and lakes in Montana and spent countless hours tying his own flies. Gary was proud of his children and grandchildren, and is survived by his first wife Patti Jo, Annette, his wife of 38 years; children Benjamin (Lynette), Becky (Larry), Tanya, Joshua (Tina), Jacob; grandchildren Luke (Cary), Sky (Kim), Jordan (Angel), Hailey, Drew, and sisters Patty (Ed), and Shirley. His parents and his young son Aaron preceded Gary in death.
Gary, we thank you for all you gave us. Be at peace. We will return you to your rivers, lakes, mountains, and seas. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.