David William Thomas, 93, died March 11, 2026. He was born Dec. 12, 1932. He was a graduate of Cretin High School and lived most of his life in Como Park.

Five years after a stint in the Army during the Korean War and graduation from St. Cloud State University, he and Jeanne Lang wed in 1956. Dave was an accountant for most of the time they raised their five children.

Later, he and two friends struck out on their own. They successfully ran Pasquales and Mickey’s restaurants. Dave’s best project was starting and growing a bottle factory in Moorhead. Dave was a backyard beekeeper, a hobby cattle rancher and a bird watcher who loved nature in almost all its forms.

Dave enjoyed his cabin on 50 acres in Wisconsin, but was happiest when amidst his family and friends. It was a family with a lot of love to share.

After losing his beloved wife in 2005, his constant companions for the next 20 years were his golden retrievers. He was able to stay in his home of more than 60 years, where he died in his sleep.

Dave was also preceded in death by parents Valentine and Mary Thomas; sisters Jewel Parsons, Rose (Joe) Schwietz, Joan (Bill) Grun, Val (Pete) Parranto; and one grandson. He is survived by brother-in-law, Jon Lang; children Rob (Cyndi) Thomas, Tim (Geri) Thomas, Mike (Susan) Thomas, Jeanne (Don) Rylander, Lisa (Mike) Arcand; 16 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

Funeral has been held at Holy Childhood Catholic Church, with interment at Roselawn Cemetery.