Obituary of Jerry Roger Thomas Sr.
Jerry Roger Thomas Sr. passed away on July 25, 2026 in Omer, Michigan, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on January 13, 1941, in Bay City, Michigan and lived a life marked by hard work, devotion to family, and a generous spirit that touched the lives of many.
Jerry spent much of his life working as a diesel mechanic and a truck driver, trades that reflected his practical nature, strong work ethic, and ability to keep moving no matter the challenge. He was the kind of man who could fix what was broken, solve problems with patience and skill, and lend a helping hand whenever it was needed. His hands were always busy, and his heart was always with the people he cared about. Those who knew him remember him as loving, friendly, and spirited, qualities that came through in the way he lived each day.
He enjoyed the simple pleasures that made life meaningful to him. Jerry loved boating, fishing, and hunting, and he found peace and enjoyment in the outdoors. He also took pleasure in fixing things and collecting trinkets, including figurines and pictures that brought character and warmth to his home. These interests reflected his appreciation for both usefulness and sentiment, and they were part of what made him uniquely himself. He also enjoyed spending time with his babies Oliver (his cat) and Maggie (his dog), who he was great at spoiling them.
Jerry was also deeply involved in his community and in organizations that allowed him to serve others. He was a member of Elf Khurafeh Shriners and took children and parents to different Shriners hospital for treatment. He was also part of the Shriners circus, where his dedication and involvement helped support a cause close to his heart. In addition, he belonged to various Masonic Temple lodges and a long time of Ducks Unlimited Inc. Through these affiliations, he formed lasting friendships and gave his time to causes that matter to him.
He was preceded in death by his father Robert Thomas Jr. of Bay City, Michigan; his mother Esther Marquerite Bronson of Carrollton, Michigan; his siblings and daughter-in-law Tracey Thomas. Jerry is survived by his wife of 13 years Penny (Bartels Rosas) Thomas; his son Jerry Roger Thomas Jr. of Lupton, Michigan; his sister Connie (James) Katt of Bay City, Michigan; his two granddaughters, Stephanie (Seth) Klein of LaCenter, Washington; Becki Thomas of Kalkaska, Michigan; and three great-grandchildren Stella Thomas, Samuel Thomas and Willow Toedebusch. He is also survived by his niece, Cathy Hyde of Bedford, Wyoming, and his nephews, Jeffrey (Megan) Zumbach of Sylvan Lake, Michigan, and Scott Allen of Swartz Creek, Michigan.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dorothy Lloyd, Peggy Patrick, Steve Gingerich, Brandon (Dirt) Sand, and James DeBeck for their help and support during this difficult time. They also express sincere appreciation to Compassus Hospice Care for the kindness, care, and support provided to Jerry during this illness.
At Jerry's request, cremation has taken placed. There will be no service. He will be remembered with love by all who knew him, and his memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many people who lives he touched through his work, his service, and his steadfast presence. He will be remembered for the loving, kindness, and strength that will not be forgotten. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish a memorial contribution to the Shriners Hospital or Compassus Living Foundation. To sign the online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.
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