Max L. Thomas

Max Lynn Thomas was born on June 10, 1936, in Minneola, Iowa, to Ray and Dorthea (Schoening) Thomas. He began his schooling in Council Bluffs, and later the family moved to Woodbine, where he continued his education until age 16. The family eventually returned to Council Bluffs, where Max worked alongside his father on the farm.

Max worked various jobs before enlisting in the United States Navy on December 28, 1954. He proudly served aboard the USS Lake Champlain for four years—despite never learning to swim. During his service, he cleverly ran what he called a “slush fund,” lending his fellow sailors $10 and collecting $20 on payday. He was proud of his military service and was honorably discharged on December 17, 1958.

After returning home, Max worked for International Harvester in Council Bluffs and farmed alongside his dad. He also held jobs as a milkman, worked on the ski hills in Crescent, Iowa, and later at Blue Star Foods.

On June 6, 1960, Max was united in marriage to Sara Young in Nebraska. Together, they built a life rooted in hard work, creativity, and partnership. They eventually found their calling in the antique business. What began as Sara “dabbling” quickly turned into a shared passion that spanned more than 50 years. They loved the work, never truly seeing it as a job, as it brought them opportunities to travel, meet people, and share their love for restoring and refinishing furniture.

Max had a deep love for the land and always dreamed of owning a farm. In 1986, he and Sara made that dream a reality when they purchased 80 acres outside of Denison. That farm became a source of joy and fulfillment for Max. After time in the shop, Max would unwind by mowing for hours on his old H tractor—his treasured “me time.”

Max, with his signature humor, told everyone he was 29 and holding. His granddaughter Vanessa was born the day after his birthday, and when she asked if he would turn “30” with her, Max happily agreed. In 2017, they celebrated their shared “30th birthday” together—a joyful occasion that sparked an annual tradition. That special celebration became something Max looked forward to each year and continues to bring joy to the family today.

Max passed away on June 5, 2025, just five days short of his 89th birthday. In addition to his parents, Ray and Dorthea Thomas; he was preceded in death by son: Dale Morey, daughter, Nancy Tucker; and four brothers: Stanley, Doug, Warner and Wendall.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Sara Thomas of Denison; son, Marc (partner Josie) Morey of San Diego, CA and daughter, Karen (Rob) Smith of Omaha, NE; 13 grandchildren; 37 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild; many other nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

An open house will be held this Saturday afternoon, June 7, 2025, at the family farm.