Patrick Thon

Born September 20th 1927 in Bellingham to Jacob and Mary Thon, Died Easter Sunday at home and was reunited with his loving wife Patricia who died March 13th 2008. Pat was a depression era “Kid” who prior to graduating High school spent any free time helping support his family, including as part of a forest fire fighting crew with the CCC. Pat graduated from Bellingham High in 1945 and enlisted in the US Army serving as a Medical technician until his discharge in 1948. He later enlisted in the Washington Army National Guard forming numerous lifelong friendships. Taking great pride in reaching the rank of Sgt. Major, all totaled his commitment to service spanned 36+ years. He spent time in the logging industry which gave him a lifelong love of the outdoors, especially fishing and camping with his three sons and numerous Friends.  In 1954 he accepted employment as an interviewer with the Washington State Employment Security Department in Bellingham. This led to a transfer to Bremerton in 1968 and a position as Manager, a position he held until his retirement in 1984. Following his retirement he became a driving force within the St Vincent de Paul organization of Port Orchard. Both Pat and his wife found great friendship and respect of community within St. Vincent’s. The staff became part of a second family to which he would say “I’m rather fond”, by his measure holding them all in the highest regard. Pat’s involvement gave immense satisfaction and came from his view of what naturally had to be done, help others who need it. With not much time for hobbies his true passion was researching our family history. This lead to countless trips across the US and Canada and included the rediscovery of numerous lost relatives. The end of his search brought a visit to Port Orchard by our rediscovered family from Heyerode, Germany, a thrill just in time to help celebrate his 81st Birthday. “In every conceivable manner, the family is link to our past, bridge to our future.” Patrick was preceded in death by 2 sisters, 3 brothers and his wife of 49 years Patricia. He is survived by Daughter Patricia, Sons, Daniel, William, David and granddaughter Jordon, all of Port Orchard. In lieu of flowers please direct all donations to St Vincent DePaul of Port Orchard. There will be no formal services at Patrick’s request.