February 26th, 1940 - November 16th, 2019
Stanley Alden Thomas
Stan entered into eternal life on November 16, 2019 to be with his parents, Beverly and Alden, and his brother Richard. He was the beloved husband of Marion for 57 years, the devoted father of Curtis and his wife Crystal, Bruce and his wife Diane, Laura, and Marcie (Marcella), and the loving grandfather of Alyssa, Matthew, Nick, Casey, and Shelby. He was born on February 26, 1940 in Quincy, CA at the Plumas County Hospital and was the eldest son of Beverly and Alden Thomas and was the oldest brother to Richard and Jerry. He was raised in the small railroad town of Keddie during its heyday, (population about 300) and spent his days hiking, swimming, shooting and playing the sports of the season. Stan had a love and talent for all sports, starting at first base on the QHS varsity baseball team and also starting on the 1958 championship basketball team at point guard. Later, he even was selected for several all-star baseball teams while serving in the Army. His service in the Army also lead to his greatest achievement. While serving on a Nike missile base, Stan would drive for hours on his days off from his station in Maine to spend time in East Hampton, Connecticut, where he had met his lifetime sweetheart, Marion DiStefano. Soon after leaving the Army and getting married, they packed their 56 Chevy convertible and went on a transcontinental journey across the US back to Stan’s roots of Quincy, CA to follow in his father’s footsteps working for the Western Pacific/Union Pacific Railroad. After a few years, Stan and Marion decided to take a better job with the WP in Stockton, CA, where they made their permanent home and raised their family. He worked for the railroad for over 44 years as a Brakeman/Conductor. Stan continued to satisfy his love for sports, playing golf as often as he could at Swenson along with outings to many links throughout Northern California and the US. Also a big sports fan, Stan was a season ticket holder for the University of the Pacific basketball team, cheering them in victory and defeat while loudly critiquing the local referees. Stan loved the outdoors and never lost his love for his roots, returning to the Sierra of his Pioneer and Maidu ancestor’s homeland whenever possible. He enjoyed motorcycle road trips and camping excursions to Yosemite and Buck’s Lake with family and friends. Folklore has it that when the lights dimmed and the generators hummed at the Thomas and Migliori campsite, there was a mini-camper migration to enjoy one of those Stan or Gene margaritas. Nothing was more important or special to him then spending time with his family.
. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.
SERVICE
A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 29th, 2019 at 10:00a.m. at the Evergreen Chapel in Cherokee Memorial Park, located off of Highway 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi CA, 95240.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Thomas family.
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