David C. Thomas

David C. Thomas, 80, of Hammett, ID passed away at St. Luke’s Hospital in Boise, Idaho on August 6, 2023. The heart that blessed so many lives is now rejoicing with the Lord and loved ones who have gone before.

David was born to Juanita J. Kilgore and Fred David Thomas in Emmett, Idaho. He joined the Air National Guard in 1959 and graduated from Caldwell High School in 1961. After 5 years in the ANG, he transferred to active duty in the United States Air Force. He spent 5 years combined in Thailand, Holland and Vietnam.

Stateside David met and married Susan Kay Howell in 1969. They had 2 children together. The family served in Washington, Germany, Idaho and Australia before he retired from active duty in 1984. Later they separated and divorced.

David served 17 years as an Avionics Technician and his last 5 years as a Communications Supervisor. He continued to work the Comm Squadron at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho in the Civil Service until retiring again in 2006. Proud of his military service, he considered himself “a warrior”. Later he said, “God’s Warrior”!

He met and married Meadabeth “Beth” Wilkins in 1987. They spent nearly 36 years together enjoying their families, making long lasting friendships, traveling from coast to coast (and beyond) and always helping folks along the way.

He is survived by his wife Beth; children Susan and Anton Walters of ID: Allison and Stephen Jenkins of GA; Jeffrey and Kim Thomas of WA; 12 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; his Aunt Wilma Jean Potts along with several cousins; and “bonus” daughters Sheri Goad (and family) of VA and Shawna Mosley (and family) of ID.

He will be faithfully remembered by the military comrades with whom he shared the special bond of veteran service: Vicki Johnson of ID, “Doc” Coleman of ID and the members of the Idaho Disabled American Veterans organization.

There are so many more people who loved him and called him friend, “brother”, Pa, Papa Dave or Papa Claus. He spent 27 years playing Santa for his grandkids, their friends, the VA and people in the community. Unable to name everyone he claimed as a friend or family, suffice to say, “If you needed him, he was there for you!”

A Celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, 27 September at 1pm at Rost Funeral Home – 500 N. 18th E. - Mtn. Home, ID 83647.

A reception will follow at the American Legion Post #26 – 515 E. 2nd S. St. - Mtn. Home, ID 83647.

Flowers can be sent to Rost Funeral Home; silk are appreciated.

Donations may be made in David’s name to his local American Veterans Chapter #17 – P.O. Box 601 – Mtn. Home, ID 83647.