Virgil Joe Thomason

VIRGIL JOE THOMASON passed away on March 7, 2015 in Santa Rosa at the age of 84. Devoted husband of the late Betty Jean Thomason. Cherished father of Mike Thomason (Annette) of Petaluma and Jane Dunhill (Brett) of Oklahoma. Adored and beloved grandfather of Jay Thomason, Emma Thomason and Jennifer Cox. Great-grandfather of Dressen Cox. Predeceased by 4 brothers and sisters. Survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Joe was born, reared and educated in Graysonia, AR. He met and married the love of his life, Betty, and together they enjoyed over 55 years of marriage. He enlisted in the US Army and served for over twenty years. He completed one tour during the Korean War and two tours in Vietnam. Joe's last post was at Fort Ord in Monterey, where he was in charge of all enlisted personnel. By the end of his career, he had attained the rank of E-9, Sergeant Major, which is the highest enlisting rank achievable without a college degree, of which he was very proud. After his retirement from the military, Joe owned and operated the Madrone Card Room in Santa Rosa for 10 years until he was finally ready to officially retire. It was during this time that he helped take care of his grandchildren, Jay and Emma. They were the lights in his eyes, and he cherished every minute with them. Joe was a wonderful man; he will be greatly missed. Private family services will be held. Family assisted by LAFFERTY & SMITH COLONIAL CHAPEL, Santa Rosa.