Rodger A. Thomas, 72, of Centralia passed away Friday, January 7, 2022, at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia. Mr. Thomas held a 9th degree black belt and practiced the art of Jujitsu and other styles of martial arts for over 50 years. He was a dedicated sensei to many grateful students and developed his own martial arts system, Tojita Enso Jujitsu. He appreciated the benefit, and understood the importance of keeping his mind, body and spirit fit through his training. Rodger had impressive musical skills and loved to jam out on his guitar. He could be found tinkering on his motorcycle and his trike, making sure they ran smoothly while he enjoyed the feel of the wind on his face while riding. Rodger especially treasured the time he spent with his family and friends, laughing, and enjoying good times.
A celebration of life service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 22, 2022, at the Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia with Pastor Ray Barnes officiating. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in rural Sandoval. Friends are welcome to a visitation time from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Friday, January 21, 2022, and from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made in Rodger’s honor to the family’s wishes. Online condolences and memories of Rodger may be shared with the family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Irvin Macz Funeral Home is privileged to be assisting the family of Rodger Thomas with arrangements.
He married Patricia Shook on October 18, 1986, in Centralia and she survives in Centralia. Along with his wife Pat Thomas, survivors include his beloved family, children Lenn (Chuck) Foster of Salem, Marjie Woodward of Salem, Hollie Thomas (Kevin Buettner) of Shattuc, Stacy Radake of Centralia, Jeff Thomas and fiancée Rebecca Boswell of Missouri, Greg Thomas (Nicky Newcomb) of Salem, Chris (Brooke) Thomas of Collinsville, Anita Libby (John Dale) of Maine; 15 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; and stepmother Carla Sinclair of Sandoval.
He was born on October 9, 1949, the son of Harold and Jean (Hassel) Thomas in Xenia. Rodger was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Jean Thomas; and his brother Robert Thomas.
