David Lyle Thomas, 64, passed away on January 25, 2012, at his home in Pocatello, Idaho after a courageous battle with cancer.
He was born on December 30, 1947 to Lyle and Mary Jones Thomas at the Oneida County Hospital in Malad, Idaho.
He attended school in Malad and graduated in 1966 from Malad High School. David being talented in mechanics continued his education at the Utah Technical College in Provo, Utah, graduating at the top of his class in 1968.
David married Valaree Jenson on August 8, 1968 at Elko, Nevada. They added a “bundle of joy” named Holly in 1969. They later divorced.
The family lived in Elko where David was employed by Dutch Stenovitch Motors. Being a gifted mechanic, Dutch sent David to continuing classes in Reno, Nevada.
It was there he learned about air-conditioning which later gave him an edge as the only mechanic in Pocatello, Idaho at that time with extensive knowledge of air-conditioning. This resulted in numerous job opportunities through southeast Idaho.
In 1970 the family moved to Pocatello, Idaho where David went to work for Bullock Motors. The dealership was later moved and the name changed to Ted’s. For the next 43 years he was employed at Ted’s which eventually sold to Lithia Motors. Throughout his career he earned numerous awards and incentives.
The life-long love of the outdoors resulted in frequent hunting, camping and metal detecting trips throughout the U.S.
David was a highly competitive trap-shooter who won many trophies throghout his lifetime.
He is survived by the love of his life Colleen Kaye Bell. His daughter Holly (Scott) Vernon, grandson Michael Vernon, sister Tamara Goddard and nephew Clint Goddard.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lyle and Mary Thomas and brother-in-law Roger Goddard.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday February 1, 2012 at 12 noon in the Horsley Funeral Home 132 W. 300 N. in Malad. Friends may visit with the Thomas family on Tuesday evening at the funeral home from 7-8 pm and on Wednesday prior to the services from 10:30-11:45 am.