Gary Thomas

Gary Gordon Thomas, age 67, of Kronenwetter, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau.

Born on July 18, 1957, in Wakefield, Michigan, Gary was the son of Gordon and Betty Thomas. He was raised in Hurley, Wisconsin, and graduated from Hurley High School in 1975. He went on to earn his degree from Gogebic Community College in Ironwood, Michigan, in 1977. Gary also attended Northcentral Technical College to further his career.

On September 26, 1987, Gary married the love of his life, Terri Scharhag, in Elcho, Wisconsin. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, love, and countless cherished memories. Gary found joy in the simple things-camping, woodworking, fly fishing, and smoking meat on his beloved "Lang" smoker-but nothing brought him more happiness than spending time with Terri, their three daughters, and his grandchildren.

Gary worked at Federal Mogul for 38 years, where he formed many lasting friendships, before the plant closed. He later worked for UAS Labs for five years before retiring.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Terri; their children, Nicole (Adam) Thomas, Emily (Kevin) Wypiszynski, and Kassie Thomas; and his adored grandchildren, Nora and Grayson Wypiszynski. He is also survived by his sister, Bonnie (Bunny) DeRizzo; nephews, Shane (Stephanie) DeRizzo and Jason (Amber) DeRizzo; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Bea (Bud) Bartline, Bob Scharhag, and Steve (Judy) Scharhag; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and countless cherished friends.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Betty Thomas; his in-laws, Bill and Loretta Scharhag; and his sister-in-law, Roseanne (Carl) Stukey.

The Thomas family extends their deepest gratitude to Dr. Niaz Haque, Dr. Christopher Platta, the nurse practitioners, nurses, and CNAs at the Wausau Cancer Center, as well as the entire Aspirus Wausau Palliative Care Team, the ER department staff, and Brainard Funeral Home for their exceptional and compassionate care during Gary's final days.

In accordance with Gary's wishes, no services will be held.