Rodney Ralph Thomas, 71, of Kearney, Missouri, passed away at the Northcare Hospice House on March 9, 2020. He battled brain cancer for a number of years and is finally at peace with our Lord.
Rodney was born January 4, 1949 in Sedalia, Missouri. He was the oldest son of Ralph and Darlene (Oehrke) Thomas.
He was united in marriage to Melanie (Belknap) in 1986. They’ve made their home together in Kearney for the past 31 years.
Rodney graduated from Smithton High School in 1966 where he received awards for his athletic ability in softball, basketball and track. Following high school, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in education from Southwest Baptist College in Bolivar. Then he taught physical education and coached at Wheatland High School for two years. Rodney earned his Doctorate degree from Cleveland Chiropractic College in 1979. He went on to practice in Excelsior Springs for 23 years. After retiring from his chiropractic business, he became a builder and developer in the Kansas City area.
One of Rodney’s greatest joys was getting together with everyone at the family farm. Reminiscing about the good ‘ole days with his brothers was a highlight of the visits. His passion for baseball continued throughout his life. He was an avid Royals fan and delighted in attending their games with his friends. However, nothing could compare to the time he spent with his beloved granddaughters.
He was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, father-in-law, grandparents, aunts and niece.
Survivors include his wife, Melanie; daughter, Teasha (Victor) Vargas; son, Brett; granddaughters, Reece and Laven Vargas; parents, Ralph and Darlene; three brothers, Karis (Mary Ann), Dwayne (Tina) and Chris; niece, Erin; nephews, Zac (Jodi) and Trent (Tera); sister-in-law, Debby (Nick) Houk. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, great-nieces and great-nephews.
A celebration of Rodney’s life will be held with his family at a future date.
Arrangements in care of Fry-Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Kearney.
Our Sincere Condolences
So sorry about your loss. May brighter days follow for all the family.
Mike Casey
Melanie and family, Keep your memories and he will always live in your heart.
JoAnn Rennack
I am so sorry for the loss of your husband.
Barbara Calvert
Melanie,
I’m so sorry to hear about Rodney. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Angie
Melanie my prayers and thoughts are with you and all Rodney’s family. I loved and appreciated him as a person and my doctor. He had integrity and honesty – I trusted his diagnosis and his way of handling my adjustments! He was also a very pleasant doctor.
I also absolutely love and appreciated you and the way you handled yourself in the classroom. My son was blessed to of had you as a teacher.
If you ever want to talk, please call me.
Love you!
Janet
I’m so sorry for your loss. May your memories and the love that you shared comfort you. I pray that God’s loving comfort brings you peace in the days ahead.
Diane (Bremer) Stonum
Melanie,
My thoughts are with you and your family.
Janet Delsemme
