Robert “Bob” Thomas

Robert “Bob” Thomas of Wasilla, 64, son-in-law of the late Colonists Bill and Viola Lentz, whose farm is now the Palmer Musk Ox Farm, died Aug. 7, 2011, at Mat-Su Regional Medical Center.

Bob is survived by devoted wife of 42 years, Colonist daughter Barbara Lentz Thomas; and sisters, Cathy Thomas (twin) and Marie Thomas McNaughton of Sonoma County, Calif., brothers- and sisters-in-law and numerous nieces and nephews in Alaska, California and Minnesota; cousins; and Pete Ferrara, his “right-hand man” in Wasilla.

He was the son of the late Robert and Patricia Thomas and brother of the late Anne Drummond of California.

Born Feb. 1, 1947, and raised in the San Francisco Bay area, he enjoyed a successful career in the retail furniture business there. A skilled craftsman, designer and decorator, he founded Wicker International import company and invested in real estate.

He came to Alaska originally as a U.S. Army military policeman at the Goose Bay Alaska Nike Missile site. He served from 1966 to 1968, during which time he met Barbara when she worked summers at the Frontier Café (now La Fiesta). The couple later moved to California and began their remarkable marriage.

From childhood, Bob enjoyed woodworking, hunting, fishing, boating and motorcycling.

He and Barbara retired to Alaska in 1993, after which he was engaged in property management and real estate and the outdoor life.

Uncle Bob was loved and admired by his many nieces and nephews and had a special bond with niece Ellen Lentz, who took wonderful care of him and Aunt Barb during his final days.

Services are at 2 p.m., Aug. 16 at St. John Lutheran Church, 440 Elmwood in Palmer, with the Rev. Jonathan Rockey presiding. A reception follows in the fellowship hall.

Bob loved flowers. Donations may also be made to the Friends of the Musk Ox, P. O. Box 587, Palmer, AK 99645.

Alaskan Heritage Memorial Chapel and Crematory cared for the family.