Final Salute

Nate “Bill” Thomas, 85, St. Joseph, MO, passed away Thursday, September 10, 2026.

He was born on September 13, 1940 to Nate Arthur, Sr. and Gladys Fay (Prewitt) Thomas in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Nate served honorably in the United States Navy and was a veteran of the Vietnam War. He retired from the Seabee Battalion, a role he held with great pride, and he loved being a Seabee. His service reflected the strength, dedication, and steady character that defined so much of his life.

He graduated from Christian Brothers in 1960 and went on to build a career as an electrician, a profession he truly loved. Later on, he became a devoted husband on June 4, 1966 when he married the love of his life, Joyce E. Sullwold and started his own family.

Nate was known for being a talker who could carry on a conversation with anyone for hours, and his easy manner and friendly spirit made him a joy to be around.

Nate enjoyed the simple pleasures in life and embraced them fully. He loved going for coffee on Tuesday mornings with his buddies, and those gatherings were a cherished part of his routine. He was an active bowler until the end and was a member of the Varsity League Bowling. He also enjoyed hunting, feeding the birds, caring about animals, collecting pocket knives, and spending a good night at the casino. He had an odd sense of humor that kept people smiling, and his presence often brought laughter and warmth to those around him.

He was a member of St. James Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus, where his faith and fellowship were important parts of his life. He was also a retired member of IBEW Local 545. Nate will be remembered for his devotion to Joyce, his love for his children and grandchildren, his pride on being a great grandfather, his role as an electrician, a Seabee, and the many ways he shared kindness, humor, and conversation with others. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his wife Joyce Thomas, his daughter Robin Redmon (Jack) and his son Chris Thomas; grandchildren, Josie Redmon (Connor), Zachary Redmon, Kenzi Thomas and Kenady Thomas; greatgrandchildren Cash and Karoline and his nieces, Pam Partridge and Shari Copeland.

Farewell Services and Public Livestream 10:00 A.M. Friday, September 18, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. Parish Rosary 6:00 P.M., Thursday, September 17, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory, where the family will gather with friends 6:30 to 8:00 P.M. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to St. James Catholic Church. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.