Mark Russell Thomas, 60, of Kittanning, passed away Monday, August 1st in Pittsburgh after a short illness.
Born on November 7, 1961, in Pensacola, FL to Russell & 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 was 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 & laughing.
He spent the last 18 years living along the Allegheny River in Kittanning.
Mark loved attending Pittsburgh sporting events cheering on The Steelers, The Penguins and The Pirates. He attended many games over the years. One of his prized possessions was when he owned the Official Truck of The Steelers.
He was a member of Elks Kittanning, PA Lodge No. 203 where he was the Bar Trustee. He was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Kittanning Aerie 896 and the Kittanning Mens Club.
His family and many friends cared for him deeply and would do anything for him.
Survivors include his father, Russell (Barbara) Thomas; his siblings JoAlison (Tim) Wiles of Butler, Lara (Rich) Kuminkoski of Moon TWP and Joyce (Dan) Slomers of Butler. Nephews & Nieces; Jessica ( TJ) Peters, Taylor & Colin Wiles, Kyle, Chloe & Bella Kuminkoski, Jake, Zack & Mya Slomers. Great niece & nephew Scarlett Wiles and Russell Kenaan. Step siblings; Craig Riesmeyer & Christie (Danny) Hayes.
Mark was preceded in death by his mother, Joan (Macefe) Thomas.
Thomas: – Per Mark’s request, his burial will be private. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later time.
Arrangements are under the direction of Young Funeral Home, Ltd.
Mark’s family would like to thank the many nurses and staff at Allegheny General Hospital & Hospice Care for the extraordinary care they provided.