John E. Thomer

John Edward Thomer, 93, passed away in his sleep at Mother Josephs Care Center on Sunday, August 27, 2017 in Olympia, WA. He was born December 16, 1923 to Harry and Mabel (Monigold) Thomer in Martins Ferry, Ohio. In February, 1950 he married Dorothy Rider in South Gate, California.

Survivors include, his daughter; Diana McCullough, of Olympia, WA, 7 grandchildren, Christina, Ericka, Sean, Debra, Heather, Angela and Andrea; 19 great grandchildren; and 1 great-great-grandchild, his sister, Mary Furbee, 95, of  Fullerton, CA as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Dorothy, 2 daughters, Sandra L. Riffe and Christine M. Sweitzer, 2 brothers, Ralph and Jim, and 2 sisters, Elizabeth and Marge.

He worked as a teenager in the coal mines in West Virginia before coming to California with 1 brother and his mother. In California, he learned arc welding and worked at US Steele until he retired to Washington.

John had a quick wit and keen sense of humor that drew people to him, touching many lives. John enjoyed backpacking and fishing as often as possible and was an avid fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes. He also enjoyed creating art using his skills as a welder.

Later in life, he discovered Living Life Fellowship, “We care where you’re going, not where you’ve been” and his true passion was having a close personal relationship with Jesus and worship the Lord with all his heart.

A time of gathering will be held on Saturday, September 9 at 1:00 pm. at Living Life Fellowship, 2705 8th Ave NE, Olympia, Washington 98506. Everyone is welcome to sign the online guest book.