William Joseph "Bill" Thomas

William Joseph "Bill" Thomas, 73, of Overland Park, Kansas, passed away on September 5, 2023.

He was born on November 25, 1949, to John and Margaret (Gilligan) Thomas in Denver, Colorado.

Bill enlisted in the Air Force in 1973. Notable places where he was stationed were Guam and Hawaii.

He graduated from Subiaco Academy, Subiaco, Arkansas, in 1967. He received an Honorable Discharge from the U.S. Air Force in 1977. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree, cum laude, from Hawaii Loa College (Hawaii Pacific University), Kaneohe, Hawai`i, in 1978.

His Air Force service lead to a career working in computer technical services. Bill worked for 33 years in the computer industry in various capacities, including software technical support and troubleshooting, technical writing and hardware repair. He also spent time as a Human Resources Director and in accounting.

One of his many interests was in culinary arts as well as beekeeping, teaching swimming, running 10K and half-marathons, bicycling, being out in nature, singing, reading, and Bible study. He was a lover of learning, very intelligent but humble.

He was also an excellent teacher, finding many approaches to aid with understanding. He was very active and involved in the church, facilitating Bible study since 1989. Bill served as a lector, Eucharistic Minister, and catechist. With his wife, he led youth ministry and marriage preparation. He adored the Sacred Scriptures and the Holy Mass.

Bill was an avid traveler throughout his life. His church helped him reach the Holy Land last December. He enjoyed some other travels this past year visiting friends and family.

He was preceded by his parents and his wife, Denise.

He was a loving brother, husband, father, and grandfather. He loved his friends and family deeply and will be missed by many.

Family will meet with friends at Ascension Catholic Church, 9510 W 127th St., Overland Park, Kansas on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, for the funeral service at 10:00 a.m. Visitation will be prior to the service starting at 9:00 a.m.

Graveside Service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the Holy Cross Cemetery in Paola, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family. Donations may also be suggested to Uplift Organization c/o Dengel and Son Mortuary, 305 N Pearl St., Paola, Kansas 66071.