Roger Lynn Thomas

Born on January 24, 1951, in Denver, Colorado, Roger was the only son of Harry and Doris Thomas and a proud Colorado native. From Denver to the Western Slope, he lived a full and meaningful life.

At age 17, with his parents’ blessing, Roger enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving honorably during the Vietnam War. Roger was a true Marine, living by the words Semper Fi—“always faithful.” He carried that devotion into every aspect of his life. After returning home with an honorable discharge, he worked on several ranches throughout the Western Slope before becoming an over the road truck driver. In 1987, he was injured on the job and was forced to medically retire.

Roger later moved to Salida, Colorado, where he became a dedicated volunteer in several organizations. In the early to mid 1990s, he served with Chaffee County Search and Rescue (South), holding the office of president from 1994–1995. During this time, he formed a close friendship with Chris, the owner of Salida Auto Salvage, where he was known to enjoy doughnuts and answer phones from time to time until the business closed in 2000. Roger was also a national member of the VFW and member of the Salida Lions Club for many years.

The western lifestyle—cowboying and rodeo—was one of Roger’s greatest passions, one he proudly shared with his son, Jeffrey. In the late 1990s, this passion led him to the Heart of the Rockies Roping Club. Roger loved watching youth grow up in the cowboy way of life. He ran the concession stand every Wednesday night during the summer series and at the Chaffee County Fair. He also volunteered as chute help for the High Country Classic Team Roping events in Nathrop, Colorado.

In the early 2000s, Roger moved to Canon City, Colorado. He became an active member of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church and volunteered every Christmas for the living nativity scene—standing outside in the cold for several nights with the animals. He especially enjoyed spending time with the camels. Roger also served on the church council, where he met (and jokingly said he “stalked”) his future wife, Cynthia Giles Thomas, who remains an active member of the congregation. Roger also volunteered with the Colorado Division of Wildlife transporting sick and injured wildlife to various rehabilitation facilities. He also enjoyed wine tasting, trips to Mexico, playing poker, and spending time with friends and family.

Roger lived his life as a proud war veteran, loving husband, devoted father and papa, and a loyal friend to many. He often said, “Smile and make them wonder what you’ve been up to.”

Roger is survived by his loving wife, Cynthia Giles Thomas; his son, Jeffrey; his favorite daughter in law, Hannah; and his grandchildren, Wyatt and Riggs. He is also survived by his stepson, Mark Allen; his sisters Joyce Hill, Carla Shake, BerDean Thomas, and Tonia Naccarato; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Doris Thomas; his sister, Becky Nefeild; his daughter, Lisa Newton; and two nieces and one nephew.

Services for Roger will be held at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Canon City, Colorado.