1926 - 2022
Gerald LaVern Thomason, known to his family and friends as Vern, departed this world June 26, 2022, at age 95.
Vern was born August 11, 1926, and lived most of his early life in Stratton, Colorado with his parents, John and Pansy Hall Thomason, and four brothers, Harold “Hal,” Galen, Francis and Melvin “Mel.” He enlisted in the United States Coast Guard Merchant Marines only a few days after his 18th birthday, serving honorably with his lifetime friend, Walt Rich. After the end of World War II, he returned to Eastern Colorado with Walt. Shortly thereafter, they met sisters, Leona and Margaret Meade.
Vern and Margaret “Marge” Jeanette Meade were married February 5, 1948. They welcomed their first daughter, Karen Renee, into the world on October 8, 1948. After a brief adventure in Oregon where Vern (and Walt) tried their hands and as lumberjacks, the Thomason's returned to Colorado where they settled in Limon. On November 18, 1951, their second daughter Patricia “Patti” Jo joined the family, followed by Lisa Suzanne, who arrived on his 29th birthday. After three daughters, they welcomed David Anthony on January 29, 1958, James Edward on April 25, 1961, and John Patrick on August 20, 1964.
Vern was a man of many talents, working as a restauranteur, dairy products distributor, electrician, refrigeration repairman, civil and structural engineer, and pharmaceutical assistant, as well as being a loving father and husband, and dedicated Catholic. In addition to the many skills and aptitudes he applied to his work life, he was also a gifted artist and woodworker, and enjoyed golfing, baseball, dancing, aviation, bowling and boxing. Vern enjoyed yearly road trips to Arizona for Rockies spring training, and was also a Jeopardy whiz, playing nightly with his daughter and granddaughter. Vern is predeceased by his wife, Marge, and four brothers, as well as his best friend, Walt.
He is survived by his six children and their spouses, his 12 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandson and numerous loving cousins, nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held Thursday June 30th from 6 – 8 PM at Love Funeral Home Limon, CO. Mass of the Christian Burial will be held Friday July 1, 2022 at Our Lady Of Victory Catholic Church, Limon, CO and burial will be 2:00 PM at the Arvada Cemetery, Arvada CO. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to Touching Hearts at Home, Box 246, Limon, CO, 80828.
