Thomas

Mark Russell Thomas, 60, of Kittanning, passed away Monday, Aug. 1, 2022, in Pittsburgh after a short illness.

He was born on Nov. 7, 1961, in Pensacola, Fla., the son of Russell and Joan (Macefe) Thomas. Mark was a 1980 graduate of Butler Area High School.

He proudly served in the Army from 1979-1985. At the time of his discharge, he was a staff sergeant. He worked as a helicopter crewman, and one of his fondest memories was when he was stationed in Hawaii. He also served in the Army Reserves after his discharge.

Mark made his career working for AK Steel for 36 years. Before his retirement in February 2021, he worked as the crew leader of shipping.

Mark was happiest boating on the river. He loved to water-ski and mastered slalom skiing. While he had a camp in East Brady, he enjoyed being with his friends on the river, hanging out at Red Bank and sitting around the fire talking and laughing.

He spent the last 18 years living along the Allegheny River in Kittanning.

Mark loved attending Pittsburgh sporting events and cheering on the Steelers, Penguins and Pirates. He attended many games over the years. One of his prized possessions was the official truck of the Steelers.

He was a member of Elks Kittanning Lodge 203 where he was the bar trustee. He was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Kittanning Aerie 896 and the Kittanning Men’s Club.

His family and many friends cared for him deeply and would do anything for him.

Survivors include his father, Russell (Barbara) Thomas; siblings, JoAlison (Tim) Wiles of Butler, Lara (Rich) Kuminkoski of Moon Township and Joyce (Dan) Slomers of Butler; nephews and nieces, Jessica (TJ) Peters, Taylor and Colin Wiles, Kyle, Chloe and Bella Kuminkoski, Jake, Zack and Mya Slomers; great-niece and nephew, Scarlett Wiles and Russell Kenaan; and stepsiblings, Craig Riesmeyer and Christie (Danny) Hayes.

Mark was preceded in death by his mother, Joan (Macefe) Thomas.

Mark’s family would like to thank the many nurses and staff at Allegheny General Hospital and Hospice Care for the extraordinary care they provided.

THOMAS — Burial will be private for Mark Russell Thomas, who died Monday, Aug. 1, 2022, per his request.

A celebration of life will be held at a later time.

Arrangements are under the direction of YOUNG FUNERAL HOME.

For more information, go to www.youngfuneralhomes.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.