Robert Thomas

Robert Irving Thomas, age 75, died peacefully Monday, September 21, 2020. Bob was born January 4, 1945 to Vincent (Red) E. Thomas Sr. and Veronica (Kluk) Thomas. He spent his early life in Kalispell and Missoula, MT, until his parents settled in Hysham, Montana. He then attended and graduated from Hysham High School. He attended the University of Montana and graduated with a BS degree in Forestry. He was employed with U. S. Forest Service at Bear Wallow, Idaho and Ashland Ranger District, Fort Howe. Upon returning to Hysham he worked for George Cramer and Farmers Union Oil before moving to the Kluk family homestead in Sumatra. There he would care for his Uncle Eli Kluk and spend the next 40 years ranching. After retiring, he worked with his brother Vince spraying weeds. He then moved to Billings to be closer to medical services. Bob loved to be involved with his communities. He was a member of the Hysham Volunteer Fire Department, Treasure County Ambulance, Ingomar School Board (3 yrs) and Forsyth School Board (18 yrs). He was active in both the Melstone and Forsyth Catholic Churches, where he was a member of the Knights of Columbus. One of Bob's most gratifying activities was being involved with 4-H. During his 30 years as a leader, a keystone activity was helping the 4-H youth complete the Ingomar rodeo grounds. He was an avid coin collector, loved his cats and enjoyed playing Pinochle with his friends at the Jersey Lilly. He was preceded in death by his parents and niece Miranda. He is survived by his Brothers Ronald (Kathleen) Thomas, Richard (Linda) Thomas, Vincent (Kathy) Thomas; Sisters Judith (Ronald) Myers, Deborah (James) Klessens and numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Bob rest in peace, we know you are “Surviving in Heaven”. Graveside services will be held Monday September 28, 2020 at 1 pm at Forsyth Cemetery in Forsyth, MT. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Knights of Columbus, PO Box 1165, Forsyth, MT 59327 or charity of choice.