Ronald Carl Thomas, age 74, of Springfield passed away on January 18, 2014, in his home, following a battle with IPF.
Ron had a 46 year career in the corrugated industry, the last 27 of those years with SMC Packaging Group. Ron began his career with the St. Regis Paper Company and his advancement entailed several moves before ending up in Kansas City, Missouri. He joined the SMC Packaging Group management ranks with their acquisition of Arrowhead Containers, Inc. in 1984. After several years in Kansas City, Ron moved to Springfield where he eventually assumed the duties of Corporate Controller. For the last ten years of Ron’s career he served as Director of Finance. Ron retired December 2011.
Ron, and wife Janice (Jan) attend Praise Assembly in Springfield; where they have served with the greeters and ushers ministry. For more than 50 years Ron has served in churches in Minneapolis, Kansas City, Clifton Park, New York, and Springfield, Missouri. Through the years Ron has served as an elder, on the board of trustees, church treasurer (in two churches) and many other church service appointments: visiting the sick and serving communion, ushering etc. Ron also enjoyed Full-Gospel Businessmen in New York. A spirit-filled born-again Christian, Ron is now a resident of heaven.
Ron’s Springfield community service includes: Serving on the board of directors for the Springfield Boys and Girls Clubs (serving on various committees), he also served on committees with the United Way, took part in Leadership Springfield, and he was a mentor at Weaver Elementary, listening to kids read. Representing SMC Packaging in this community
He is preceded in death by his parents and many aunts and uncles.
Ron is survived by his wife Janice Marie (Jan), they were married for 52 years and have two sons. Son John (and wife Brenda), grandchildren Jessica and Scot Cornish and Bradley Thomas and, son Michael, Sisters: Judith Halvorson, and husband Orvin, and sister, Susan Novotny, several nieces and nephews, two brothers-in law, Donald Helgeson (and wife Ruth), Douglas Helgeson and other family members.
Ron loved his work, his retirement, and spending time with family and friends. His greatest pride and joy were his sons, daughter in-law and grandchildren. His life was well lived. He is loved dearly and will be missed greatly.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Boys and Girls Club of Springfield, Praise Assembly, and Mercy Hospice of Springfield MO.
Celebration of Life Service will be held on Wednesday, January 22, 2014, at Praise Assembly, 3535 N. Glenstone, Springfield, MO 65803, at 12:30. Visitation before the service beginning at 11:00 a.m.