John Joseph Thomas, Jr. was born March 31, 1942 to John and Georgia Thomas in Bismarck, North Dakota. John grew up with four siblings: Jim (deceased), David, Rick, and Georgia Ann. After graduating high school, John attended the University of North Dakota and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Business. He also served in the Army Reserve while studying. He moved to Duluth, Minnesota to work in sales with IBM. It was here that he met the love of his life, Barbara. They married in 1969, and the couple moved to Eau Claire, WI where John continued with IBM and Barbara taught in the public schools. In February of 1972, John became a father with the birth of Mary Ellen. His son Aaron was born in May of 1973. John created Promotional Services in 1985, a fundraising company that provided financial resources to schools in Wisconsin and Minnesota.

John and Barb loved to travel in the summers and spent many relaxing days in places like Las Vegas, Jamaica, and the Bahamas. They enjoyed fun times with friends, family, and wonderful neighbors in Eau Claire. Many were welcomed to their cabin retreat in Cornell, WI.

John's three grandchildren: Neena, Dominic, and Savina, brightened his life that much more. He loved to cook, and was wonderful at it. He will absolutely be remembered for his fabulous chocolate fudge birthday cakes.

John was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He showed love through his actions and contributions to organizations he believed in.

John passed away due to complications of dementia on February 11, 2018. We will remember his tireless energy, his gratitude, the all-night poker games, and meals that fed the soul as well as the stomach.

A memorial service will be held beginning at 10 am on Saturday, June 9, 2018 at Unity Christ Center, 1808 Folsom Street, in Eau Claire, WI.