Ralph Erwin Thomas

Ralph is survived by his wife of 69 years, Merilyn and his two sisters Thelma Chestnut and Dorothy Stratton, his four children Kathleen, Ralph, Daniel and Pamela (Angie Grizzard). Ralph will also be fondly remembered by his five grandchildren, 9 great- grandchildren and 2 great- great grandchildren.

Ralph was one of seven children born to William and Hetty Thomas. Ralph moved to California after serving in the U.S. Navy during WWII. In 1948 he met and married his wife Merilyn. He was a long standing member of the Petaluma United Methodist Church. He was a longtime resident and employee of the U.S. Coast Guard training center, retiring after 30 years of service.

Ralph loved traveling in his RV, boating, fishing and was an avid golfer well into his 80’s. Ralph also enjoyed working on his 1 acre property, tilling and caring for his garden and small orchard. He loved tinkering around the property, mowing and building things for his family.

His quiet presence and strength will be sorely missed.

Gone but NEVER forgotten

A Funeral Service in memory of Ralph will be held on Friday, February 9, at 1:30 p.m. (with a viewing 1 hour prior to the service), at the Parent-Sorensen Mortuary & Crematory, 850 Keokuk St, Petaluma, CA 94952

Parent-Sorensen Mortuary and Crematory