Perry L. Thomas, 61, of Fremont, WI, died on August 4, 2024,
after a courageous hard fought 32-month battle from Glioblastoma (GBM) Brain Cancer.
Born on March 10, 1963, in Douglas, AZ, he was a devoted husband, father, brother, and friend who left an indelible mark on the lives of those he touched.
Perry graduated from Harlem High School in Rockford, IL, in 1981 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Engineering from the University of Illinois Chicago in 1987. His professional journey was marked by significant achievements including a Design Patent. He began his career at Roper Whitney in Rockford, IL, then moved on to Hartley Controls in Neenah, WI. Demonstrating entrepreneurial spirit, Perry founded several businesses including Process Automated and the world-renowned GreenSand Controls Inc in Fremont, WI. He was an active member of the American Foundry Society. His career was characterized by a passion for innovation and excellence.
Beyond his professional life, Perry was an avid traveler and enjoyed exploring the globe. His hobbies included golf, fishing, camping, flying, snowmobiling, and ATV riding. A dedicated Green Bay Packers fan, he also had a keen eye for photography. For many years, Perry volunteered his photography skills to the Weyauwega-Fremont High School Sports Programs and Yearbook Department. He received the Wisconsin Athletic Director’s Association Service Award for his service to the school. He was a long-time member of the Weymont Run Country Club and the Mississippi Valley Sportsman’s Club. Perry was also an active Private Pilot and a member of EAA, EAA Chapter 444, and a Young Eagles Pilot. These activities reflected his adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors.
Perry’s generous spirit extends beyond his lifetime, as he has donated his brain to the University of Madison Brain Bank for Glioblastoma (GBM) research. This contribution reflects his continuous commitment to helping others and advancing medical science.
Perry will be deeply missed by his wife of 33 years, Melissa (Kiltz) Thomas; son, Nickolas Thomas; beloved cat, Rosie; brother, Paul Thomas (Deanna), and their children, Tyler and Ryan (Taryn); and sister, Donna Thomas Gustin, and her children, Gregory and June. He was preceded in death by his parents, Perry Thomas Sr. and Delores Thomas.
Perry and Melissa would like to thank all the wonderful medical staff they worked with throughout his brain cancer battle. You are all members of “Team Thomas”. Special thanks to Dr. Yazbak (ThedaCare-Neenah); Dr. Bhatia, RNs Dallas and Scott (UW-Madison); Dr. Hsie and “nurse Donna” (Aurora – Oshkosh), and all the support staff at those facilities. We are thankful to Novocure/Optune for extending his life well beyond expectations.
A celebration of life will be held at the Waupaca Municipal Airport (PCZ), 2601 Runway Dr, Waupaca, WI 54981. The event will take place on September 14, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Attendees are welcome to fly-in or drive-in to honor Perry’s memory.