Dale Ray Thomas, resident of Eminence, MO, a loving son, father, and friend, passed away on Sunday, August 5, 2018 in his home at the age of 67 years.

Dale was born in St. Louis, MO on December 7, 1950 and graduated high school from Eminence, MO in 1969.  He started college in Rolla, MO at the School of Mines and Metallurgy but left to serve in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War and served with entitlement to the Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.   After being honorably discharged from the Air Force, he worked in various roles as a meteorologist and an electrician, including Chief Electrician for Asarco Lead Mine prior to retiring.

Dale enjoyed hiking and exploring the outdoors with his family.  Dale was also a hobbyist gunsmith when he had the time.  He was generous with others and would help strangers and friends alike, giving away his possessions if others needed them.  He loved animals and would often rescue strays and encouraged his children to do the same. Dale was beloved by his family and will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his mother, Thelma Thomas;  his former wife, Eva Gail Randolph; daughter, Jessica (Fred) Niemeier; sons Michael Thomas and Stephen (Monica) Thomas; and daughter of his heart, Kristen April Brooks and her children, Gibson and Isla; grandchildren Logan, Inara, Liam, Annalynn, John, Destiny, Charles, Aaron, Noah, and Conner; and sister Pam (Frank) Johnston and brother Bruce (Tammy) Thomas; nephews Joshua Johnston and Kenney Thomas; nieces Holly (Ben) Harridge, Kayla Thomas and Rachael (Kevin) Lierz.

He was predeceased by his father, Gentry Ray Thomas and brother, Harold Jay Thomas.

Visitation will be held from 6-8:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 8, 2018 at Yarber Mortuary (formerly Duncan Funeral Home) at 211 Main Street, Eminence.  Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 9 at 2:00 p.m., also at the funeral home.  Interment will follow in Bethany Chapel Cemetery, Eminence.

Memorial donations may be made to AMVETS National Service Foundation.  Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com .