Robert (Bob) William Thomas, 69, of Albert Lea, died Friday, Sept. 16, 2011 at Good Samaritan Society, Albert Lea. He was born Dec. 7, 1941, in Matawan, to parents William (Bill) and Martha (Dombrowski) Thomas.

Surviving are three children: Michael (Jim, Mike) Thomas, Albert Lea, Mark Thomas, Northwood, Iowa, and Deb (Paul) Olsen, Worthington; four grandchildren: Kendra (Paul) Myrom, Owatonna, Seth Gerber, Austin, and Andrew and Bryce Olsen, Worthington; and two great-grandchildren: Riley and Mason Myrom, Owatonna. Also survived by ex-wife and friend, Diann Thomas, Manchester; five brothers: Gene (Elaine) Thomas, Alden, Richard (Rhonda) Thomas, El Dorado, Kan., Duane Thomas (Terry), Glenville, Greg Thomas (Laura), Albert Lea, and Ron Thomas (Renae), Albert Lea; and one sister, Karen (Doug) Van Ryswyk, Alden.

Bob had a zeal for life and enjoyed fishing, playing cards at the Albert Lea Senior Center and socializing with people. He also had a love for the open road as he spent 38 years trucking and it was a true passion for him.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents Martha and Bill Thomas.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. today at Bonnerup Funeral Service, Albert Lea and one hour prior to service on Monday at St. Theodore’s Catholic Church, Albert Lea. The service will be at 1 p.m. Monday at St. Theodore’s Catholic Church with the Rev. John Traufler and Deacon Mike Ellis officiating. Burial will be in the St. Theodore’s Catholic Cemetery at 3 p.m. Tuesday.