Sheldon Thomas

THOMAS---Sheldon S., 103, Laurel View Village, Davidsville, stepped peacefully into eternity on June 16, 2023. Born July 21, 1919, in Johnstown, son of Jacob M. and Lucy L. (Fender) Thomas. Preceded in death by parents; wife of over 77 years, Jean (Schmidt) Thomas; four brothers and three sisters; granddaughter-in-law, Connie Fazekas. Survived by daughters, Eleanor Mae (James Krug); Nancy (Bernard Dixon) and son, Robert (Cherry Cameron); grandchildren, Joseph Krug (Tracey Krystal), Thomas Krug (Becky Johnson), Karen Wanamaker (Duane), Aaron Thomas, Marcie Kovalsky (Patrick); step-grandchildren, Cindy Criswell (Ronald), Karen Mennig (Eric); great-grandchildren, Anna and Laura Wanamaker, Dante and Areli Krug; Spencer and Jillian Kovalsky; and many nieces and nephews. Sheldon was the last surviving member of his immediate family. He was a US Army veteran of World War II. He served in the European Theatre of Operation and was at Normandy on D-Day. He was injured twice and was a member of the 238th Engr. C Bn, serving also in Northern France and Germany. Sheldon received a Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster, American Theatre Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal and EAME Ribbon with three Bronze stars. He also received the Chevalier of the Legion of Honor, France's highest distinction. That award is given by France in gratitude of his personal contribution to the liberation of France during World War II. After his military service he worked at the Acme warehouse in Woodvale. Member of Scalp Level Covenant Brethren Church and enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening and riding with Jean on their ATV. Memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, July 1, 2023 at Laurel View Village Chapel, with Pastor Wes Yoder and Pastor Eric Lasure officiating. Committal, Forest Lawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to Laurel View Caring Fund in memory of Sheldon Thomas. The family is being served by Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland. Online condolences may be posted at www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.