Dean O. Thomas, 69, of Phillipsburg, Kansas, passed away at home on February 10, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Dean was born on May 16, 1956, in Denver, Colorado, to Cecil A. and Clella (Hart) Thomas. He spent his early years living on a ranch near Strasburg, Colorado, with his parents and three brothers before the family moved to Ellis, Kansas. When Dean was 15, the Thomas family established their farm two and a half miles north of Agra, Kansas, where he helped build a life rooted in hard work and resilience.

As a boy, Dean was known for being a little rebellious and mischievous and was never far from a bit of trouble. He loved horses and animals and found joy in hunting, fishing, and exploring the great outdoors. These passions stayed with him throughout his life.

In February of 1975, Dean began dating Sally Haskett and within a few short months, he knew she was the one he wanted to marry. They were united in marriage on February 13, 1976, at Pleasant Green Assembly of God Church in rural Phillips County, Kansas. Together, they built a life in Phillipsburg and raised their three children, Sarah Joann, Tiffany Rose, and Benjamin Dean.

Family was Dean’s greatest pride and joy. Many summer weekends were spent at the lake fishing and creating memories that will be cherished forever. He participated in a men’s volleyball league for several years, bowled in a league, and enjoyed outdoor recreation. He also had a love for fast cars. He was the lead pit crew mechanic for a local stock car driver and later drove his own stock car number T3. In the most recent years, Dean spent a lot of time attending events for his grandsons, drinking coffee with friends, and participating in cornhole events with the Norton and Smith Center cornhole clubs.

Dean believed strongly in teaching his children practical life skills. Before they left home, he made sure they knew how to check and change oil, change a flat tire, and check tire pressure so they would always be able to take care of themselves. In later years, he continued that legacy with his grandchildren, spending time shooting guns and repairing engines alongside his son and grandsons.

Dean never met a stranger. He was a friend to many and a stranger to no one. He loved to visit, sometimes so much that the burgers on the grill got a little burnt. He believed everyone deserved to be loved, and he loved his family and friends with his whole heart.

After completing his courses at NW Vo-Tech in Goodland, Kansas, Dean worked as an automotive mechanic. Over the years, he also drove trucks, served as plan manager at B&B Redimix, and held various other jobs. A true jack of all trades, he was always willing to lend a hand to a friend or neighbor. He also operated a small engine repair business. Of all his roles, his most important job was that of loving husband, father, grandfather, and uncle.

Dean was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Clella Thomas, as well as several aunts, uncles, nephews, and grandparents.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Sally Thomas of the home; daughters Sarah Beckman and husband Aaron of Phillipsburg, Kansas; Tiffany Koetkemeyer and husband James of Gardner, Kansas; son Benjamin Thomas of Agra, Kansas; grandchildren Nicholas Beckman, Preston Beckman, and Jameson Koetkemeyer; brothers Cecil Thomas Jr. and wife Sandy of Big Timber, Montana, Tommy Thomas and wife Connie of Lindsborg, Kansas, and Eddie Thomas and wife Kelly of Glade, Kansas; along with many extended family members and friends.

Cremation is planned. Friends may sign the register book from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Friday, February 20, with family receiving friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel with J.D. Washington officiating. A dinner will follow at Heartland Worship Center. Dean will be laid to rest in a private family service at a later date.

Memorials are established to NWKareS Hospice Services. Dean had several family members who were served by Hospice in recent years. Over the last few years, he volunteered his time with the local hospice office. After receiving his terminal diagnosis, Dean trusted NWKareS to make his final transition with comfort and dignity.

Hugunin Family Funeral Homes Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel are in charge of arrangements.