HOLTON – Walter P. "Rick" Thomas, 52, of Holton, KS passed away March 29, 2012 at his home. He was born February 9, 1960 in Albuquerque, NM the son of Walter Ivy "Ivan" and Delores (Vaughn) Thomas.

Rick had lived in Holton for 5 years and previously in Liberal, KS. He had worked as an iron worker before being disabled.

Rick married Kelly A. Gray on February 4, 1990 in Liberal, KS. She survives. Other survivors include a daughter, Tiffany M. Thomas and a son, David A. Thomas both of the home; 2 sisters, Kathy Johnson of Deming, NM and Barbara Anthrim of St. Joseph, MO and 2 brothers, David Thomas of Deming, NM and Alan Thomas of Liberal, KS.

Rick was cremated. Memorial gathering will be from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Friday evening, April 6, 2012 at his home (20154 US Hwy 75, Holton, KS). Memorials may be given to Thomas Children's Educational Fund c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. A book will be available to sign and memorials may be left at the Mercer Funeral Home.