Obituary: Thomas, David F.
Age 71
Dave’s great joy was spending time with friends and family.
He loved the outdoors; especially fly fishing, downhill skiing, photography, birding and backpacking.
Dave was talented and resourceful and was always there to provide a helping hand and offer perspectives on the best way to solve a problem.
Whether on the ski slopes or helping his grandchildren with science projects, Dave enjoyed being involved in the lives of those he loved.
Dave applied himself to his career as a master printer.
He learned all the details and nuances of the printing trade, eventually becoming a business partner of Action Printers in Coeur d’Alene, ID.
After retiring, Dave continued to apply himself in the printing industry by founding AmericanLithoSupply.com, an online resource for printing supplies.
He was well-known in the industry as a problem solver and expert.
Dave was the go-to person no matter the problem.
Born December 7, 1943 in Bottineau, ND, Dave graduated from Bottineau High School and eventually moved to Missoula to work in and teach journalism at the University of Montana.
He moved to Spokane in 2002.
Dave is survived by his wife of 13 years, Cheryl (Cook) Thomas; daughters: Jacqueline Thomas and Jeri Cooper; stepdaughters: Julie Luten and Christina Harmon: stepson Jason Warnick; and ten grandchildren.
In Dave’s own words, “Number one and above all else, be happy.
I am with God in heaven.
He has forgiven me my sins.
I will see you all again when we meet at the Rainbow Bridge, by the edge of the woods, at the foot of the hill, in a lush green meadow where time stands still.
Where our friends run when their time on earth is over and done.
For here between this world and the next is a place where each beloved creature finds rest.”
A Memorial Service will be held at Trinity Baptist Church, 6528 N. Monroe St., Spokane, on Friday, November 20th at 1:00 PM.
Flowers are welcome.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Spokane or Cancer Care NorthWest.
Guestbook available at www.riplingerfuneralhome.com