THOMAS, Dale Michael

Kingman Daily Miner, Kingman, AZ - Published on June 3, 2012 - Dale Michael Thomas went home to be with his Heavenly Father on Sunday, May 27, 2012. Dale was born in 1950 in Milwaukee and lived the last 11 years in Kingman. Dale was an auto mechanic most of his life, and an automotive upholsterer, specializing in convertible tops. For fun, he restored classic cars and trucks, and bought and sold them for wealthy clients, allowing him to see America first while still earning a living. He also loved to dance, listen to oldies music, and explore the Southwest with his loving wife, Karen. In his later years as his disability claimed his freedom, he became addicted to "Redneck TV." Dale led an exciting and eventful life, and was known for his gruff manner and salty sense of humor. Yet there was a quiet side that few had experienced or recognized when they had - his deep love and generosity for those close to him, and his steadfast honor and integrity. His cheerful attitude lifted all those around him. Dale leaves behind his wife, Karen; his three daughters, Sheri Padula of Madison, Wis., Julie Clark of Surprise, Ariz., and Shirley Wilkinson of Kingsford, Mich.; his granddaughter, Leticia Thomas; and his three great-grandchildren, Chris, Jace and Karma. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Shirley (Laabs) Thomas. Dale was a long-term patient of KRMC Hospice and the family wishes to express our deepest gratitude for all the help and friendship they have given us over the years, the education and support they have provided, and the assistance in so many ways as we fought the long battle with COPD. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to KRMC Hospice, 1790 Sycamore Ave., Kingman, AZ 86409-3566. A celebration of life picnic will be held at the family home on Saturday, June 9, 2012. Please call (928) 897-2696 for details and directions.