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Royce Dale Thomas, lifelong resident of Kalkaska and die hard “Blue Blazer” passed away suddenly on Thursday, January 9, 2020 at Ascension Providence Hospital in Southfield. He was born on July 24, 1958 in Kalkaska, the son of Virginia (Williams) and Duane Thomas. Royce married his sweetheart, Terry Reynolds on October 16, 1982 in Kalkaska. Together they were involved in the community, school, church and family. Whether giving someone a helping hand, a word of encouragement or advice, playing a round of golf, Royce was there. He was known by many titles, such as “Coach T” to the school athletes, but his most cherished was “papa”. Royce was founder and part owner of Grand View Golf Course. He had 40 plus years in the oil and gas industry and was currently employed at Fortis Energy Services. Royce was a member of Kalkaska Church of Christ. Royce is survived by his devoted family, wife, Terry; daughters, Kassi (Thomas) Burkam of Kalkaska, Ashley (Matthew) Thomas of Howell; grandbabies, Cecilee and Blakelee Burkam, Caden, Christian and Camden Thomas; parents, Duane and Virginia Thomas, of Kalkaska; brother, James (Kathy) Thomas of Rexton. During the services the family would invite everyone to wear “Blazer Blue” in memory of Royce. Visitation will be held on Friday, January 17th from 4:00 – 8:00 pm at Kalkaska Church of Christ. Additional visitation will be on Saturday at New Hope Community Church from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Funeral services will begin at 1:00 PM at New Hope. Memorials may be given to the Royce Thomas Scholarship Fund, c/o Chemical Bank, PO Box 120, Kalkaska, MI 49646 Condolences can be left online at wolfeoneill.com Arrangements were made by Wolfe-O’Neill Funeral Home, our family serving yours.

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Royce Dale Thomas

July 24, 1958 - January 9, 2020