Stephen Addison Thomas

Stephen Thomas, 55, Green Bay, died Nov. 30, 2014, at his home, from complications of cancer. Born Dec. 17, 1958, he is the son of Sally (Brown) Thomas and the late Tedd Thomas. After graduating from West High School, Steve attended the Lawrence University Conservatory of Music where he studied piano performance, music composition and organ performance. Most of his working years were spent in a greenhouse setting as a grower, and in the landscaping business. Steve particularly enjoyed the chance to be creative by designing gardens - he was good at it! For many, he was the go-to guy for gardening advice. He loved animals, music and had a good sense of humor. Steve’s sense of humor never waned and if one was not amused, they were hopeless! He had a talent for teaching - particularly children in learning their manners, piano, and being kind to animals.

Steve was generous and kind. He hosted this past Thanksgiving dinner for his family and made sure there were ample leftovers (which he gave to a neighbor family in need). Like anyone, he could be cranky. Sometimes he was obstinate. But never hung on to it. Once his point was made, he was not spiteful or begrudging-and he was often right.

Steve will be dearly missed by his family, friends and neighbors. He will certainly be remembered by all he impressed-even in small ways.

He is survived by his mother, Sally Thomas, Green Bay; a brother, Kevin Thomas, Oshkosh; a sister, Laurie Thomas, Neenah; and several nephews and nieces.

Also preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Carmen and Harry Tubbs; paternal grandparents, Lilian and Harry H. Thomas.

Writing an obituary is tough. If Steve could have edited this he might have said, “It sounds too good…” His personal struggles were at times a challenge for those who cared for him. But all who knew him stuck around for his kindness, wit and charm. He had no enemies. It was impossible to dislike him. The memories are all good.

According to Steve’s wishes he was cremated and there will no funeral service. A gathering will be held in the Spring when nature comes back to life. For that occasion, Steve would say, “Don’t hang crepe” and wish for everyone to have a good time. If you want to make a gesture in his memory in the meantime share something with someone who has less, give something you have to someone who wants it more, or be kind to an animal. Definitely pamper your plants!

The family is being served by MALCORE (West) Funeral Home (920) 499-4100. Visit www.malcorefuneralhome.com to share a memory with Steve’s family.

This is from Mom: for three straight years before your illness we had this good partnership, born of my need for help in the garden, house and yard. The garden was the most demanding, but I cannot cast my eyes in any direction without seeing something you did for me everywhere.

From the first call in Spring we were off to go shopping for flowers, and at the end of the season putting the garden to bed in October! This was the beginning of that fun series of exciting events that led to a garden: planning, shopping, choosing, imagining, nurturing, and planting. There may be some disappointments, but there was always great pleasure.

I leaned on his expertise; and even after some coaxing, learned to love tropicals (previously resisted!) which now add a new dimension to the garden. Your choices were much broader than mine, and your gentle prodding expanded my outlook.

Gardening won’t be the same next year without you, but it has been enriched by what you’ve taught me. You always gave me your best efforts in all matters. I treasured this period in our lives with its revelations, closeness, and joy.

Bye, Steve Dear. We wanted more time to love you – like, years!

“You have gone now, all of you, that were so beautiful when you were quick with life. Yet not gone, for you are still a living truth inside my mind. So how are you dead, when you live with me as surely as I live, myself? We will live in the minds of each other.” (How Green Was My Valley)