Richard M. Thomas

Richard Matthew Thomas, 95, of Silvis, Illinois, passed away on January 25, 2025 at Friendship Manor in Rock Island, Illinois. Richard was born on November 1, 1929 to Mildred and Ralph Thomas of Laramie, Wyoming. 

Richard was a 1949 graduate of United Township High School. He was involved in many activities and sports earning varsity letters in football, basketball, and track. 

On August 7, 1951, Richard married Bonnie J. Tessman in East Moline, Illinois. They went on to have a beautiful loving marriage for over 72 years. Bonnie preceded him in death in February of 2024. 

Richard served in the Air Force for three years during the Korean War. After his time in the service, he and Bonnie returned to East Moline, Illinois where he would go to work at John Deere Harvester, becoming an Electrician and retiring after 37 years. 

Richard lived in Silvis, in a home that he and his beloved father-in-law built for their family. In that home Richard and Bonnie raised their four children and resided for 65 years prior to moving to Friendship Manor in Rock Island. 

Richard was a very involved man. He was Vice President of the UTHS Booster Club, Vice President of UAW Local 865, member of the Masons, and the American Legion. He spent countless hours with the Silvis Garden Club, and the Silvis United Methodist Church after school program. 

Some of Richard’s favorite activities were spending time with his family, camping, traveling all over the United States, hunting, gardening, wood working, crafting and reading. 

Richard is survived by his four children: Daniel (Carol) Thomas, Christine (Duane) Kiddoo, Rebecca (Bruce) Vyncke, and Tamara (Brian) Nelson. He is also survived by his eight grandchildren: Jennifer (Gabe) Alderette, Matthew (Lisa) Maxwell, Dale Thomas, Andrea (Brian) Fisher, Linda (Michael) Hillbloom, Eric (Ana) Vyncke, Amie (Mooch) King, Lisa (Cory) Wildermuth, 17 great grandchildren, and 4 great great grandchildren. Richard is also survived by several nieces and nephews; he shared a particularly close relationship with his nephew, Earl R. Kyle III. 

Richard was preceded in death by his loving wife, his mother-in-law and father-in-law - who he considered his parents, his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, and his brother and sister-in-law. In the Spring there will be a joint visitation for Richard and Bonnie, followed by a private family service. Richard’s family would like to thank Schroder Mortuary for their assistance during this time. We would also like to thank the Assisted Living staff at Friendship Manor for the loving care they provided to both Richard and Bonni Memorials in Richard’s name may be sent to Inspire Continuing Care located in Geneseo, Illinois and to Shriner’s Children Hospital. 

Richard’s family was truly blessed to have had him in their lives for so many years. He taught the family that FAMILY was truly the most important thing in life. He will be missed.