Gary Thomas

Gary passed away on October 27, 2016 in Sun City West, AZ. He was born in Seattle, WA on March 11, 1938 to Verona and Floyd Thomas. His family moved to Idaho when he was about 6 years old. They finally settled on the "Island" in Meridian, ID. Gary went to local schools, graduating from Meridian High. He later received an Associate degree from Glendale Community College in 1974. He joined the Navy after graduation in 1956, and after duty in the far east, and San Diego, he returned to Idaho. He ultimately went to work for KBOI TV in Boise where he took part in live broadcasts including segments in which he displayed his talent with hand puppets (M 99). He married and had 3 children, Gary Jr., Deann, and Deborah who was born shortly before they moved to Phoenix in 1966 where he began working for KPHO TV. He worked there for several years, then went on to marketing and sales until he went to work for DOD, in the commissary at LUKE AFB AZ where he retired at age 62. Gary married Barbara Tardiff in 1971. She had 2 sons, David and Steven. They became a family of 7. After retirement Barb and Gary traveled to Europe, all states and Mexico, in later years via RV. They loved dancing, golfing and Gary was a mini-sprint racing fan. Gary was predeceased by his parents, and his daughter Deann. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, his son Gary, Jr, and family, daughter Deborah Wickman and family, and sons David Tardiff and Steven Tardiff. Also surviving are his beloved granddaughters Jennifer Brogdon, Malorie, Mackenzie and Kelsey Tardiff and grandson Jason Tardiff. He is also survived by his brother, Ronald Thomas and his family of Boise, ID and 8 great grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at the National Memorial Cemetery of AZ on Thursday, 11/17/16, 23029 N Cave Creek Rd. Phoenix at 10:00 a.m.