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Master Sergeant, United States Air Force (Retired)
Dec. 31, 1932-May 13, 2026
Minot
Samuel James Thomas, Master Sergeant, United States Air Force (Retired), passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of family and friends on May 13, 2026.
Born December 31, 1932, in Stephenson Township, Michigan, to Samuel and Iola (Anderson) Johnson. Sam lost his mother as an infant and was adopted by William and Elizabeth Thomas. He was lovingly raised and given the name Samuel James Thomas. He was baptized in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in 1937 and graduated from Baldwin High School in Birmingham, Michigan in 1950.
Sam began his military service in the U.S. Army in 1953, serving in West Germany during the early Cold War. In 1953, he transitioned to the U.S. Air Force, building a distinguished career spanning over two decades. As a Veterinary Specialist and Food Safety Inspector, he served in Erding Air Base, Germany; Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota; Cadiz Spain and in Fargo, North Dakota. His service took him across Europe and the Americas, including supporting the U. S. Navy in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. He was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters.
On April 27, 1963, Sam married Linda Mae Downie in Tonset Church, Burke County, North Dakota. During their assignment in Cadiz, Spain, they welcomed their son, Benjamin.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda; his son, Benjamin (Evelyn) Thomas; grandchildren, Emily and Eric (Nikki); great-grandchildren, Reena, Bridget and Walter; his sister, Phyllis Rosander; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, adoptive parents; brother, William and sisters, Gladys, Margaret, Betty, and Lorraine.
Sam's legacy of service, family, and steadfast care will live on in all who knew him.
In keeping with Sam's wishes there will be no reviewal as cremation has taken place.
Service: A Celebration of Life Service will be held Sunday, July 26, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at the Tonset Lutheran Church of Lignite, ND. Pastor Elmer Odland will officiate.
Those wishing to sign the online register and share memories may access the online obituaries section at (www.thompsonlarson.com).
Published by The Minot Daily News, July 22, 2026.