Kenneth Everett Thomas, born on August 18, 1955, in Paris, Illinois, to Russell and Henrietta Thomas, passed away on February 13, 2025, at Methodist Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa.
Kenneth lived a full and adventurous life, filled with fun, laughter, and a bit of craziness along the way. He was married to Donna Estep, and together they had two daughters, Tami and Amber. Later in life, he married Angela Blake, with whom he had two more children, Cassady and Jordan.
Known affectionately as "Grizz" to his friends, Kenneth proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. He had a deep love for coffee, often visiting Friedrich's Coffee or, when in Danville, Illinois, Mad Goat Coffee. His greatest joys were his children and grandchildren, and he was always ready to offer a helping hand, check in with a call, or invite someone to hang out. A man who never met a stranger, Kenneth’s warm heart and generous spirit made him a beloved figure to all who knew him.
Kenneth is survived by his children: Tami (Wayne) of Greenfield, Indiana; Amber (Adam) Quick of Danville, Illinois; Cassady (Robert) Blake of Newton, Iowa; and Jordan Blake of Des Moines, Iowa. He also leaves behind his siblings: Russell Thomas of Des Moines, Iowa; Susan (Ben) Harvey of Dover, Delaware; and Debi Thomas-Robeck of Orlando, Florida. His cherished grandchildren include Brittany, Brooke, Breanna Smalley, Gage Thomas, Desiree, Isabella, Jazzmin, Landon, and Hunter Quick, and Rilee, Maryrose, Trinity, and Kelsey Lincoln. He also had two great-grandchildren, Tai and Kingston. Kenneth is further survived by many nieces, nephews, and close friends, all of whom will deeply miss him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Henrietta Thomas; his brother, Barry Thomas; his sister, Mary Center; and his grandson, Levi Quick.
A military funeral will be held at the Military Cemetery in Adel, Iowa, at a later date. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks for all the thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to his children to help offset funeral expenses.
Kenneth will always be remembered for his kindness, humor, and devotion to his family. He will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
