Charles Alan Thomas

Charles A. Thomas, D.V.M. 79, of Thor and formerly of Lehigh passed away Friday, May 17, 2013 at the Paula J. Baber Hospice Home. Funeral services will be 1:30 PM Thursday, May 23, 2013 at Laufersweiler-Sievers Funeral Home with Rev. Brian Lund of Zion Evangelical & Reformed Church in Garner officiating. Burial will be at West Lawn Cemetery, Lehigh. A visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 PM Wednesday at the funeral home. Charles is survived by Leesanne, and their daughters, Mary Greiman and husband Ted; Florence "Sis" Greiman and husband, Cory; and grandchildren, Kyle, Cole, Morgan, and Zach all of Garner. He was preceded in death in by his parents, Gordon E. and Florence L. (Anderson) Thomas; brother, Gordon "George" Thomas; and an infant brother. Charles Alan Thomas was born January 23, 1934 in Lehigh. He was raised and educated in Lehigh, graduating from Lehigh High School. After graduation he attended Cornell College for a year before attending Iowa State University. Charles graduated from ISU in 1958 with his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. In 1962, Charles was united in marriage to Leesanne Powers in Omaha. The couple made their home in Lehigh where he first began his veterinary practice with his father. Charles built his first clinic in the Savage Addition in Fort Dodge where he practiced about 10 years. In 1974, he established Fort Dodge Animal Hospital where he practiced until 1996. He worked briefly for the USDA and starting in 1997 he worked as a relief veterinarian. In 2008, he opened a practice in Badger. He and Leesanne most recently lived in Thor. Charles raised, bred, and exhibited registered Angus and crossbred cattle. He also had raised, bred, and exhibited registered horses. His practice included livestock, exotic animals, and companion animals throughout his career. He was dedicated to his profession. Charles enjoyed spending time with his many friends, family, his dogs, and horses. Charles was a Life Member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Iowa Veterinary Medical Association. He was a long time member of the American Association of Equine Practitioners as well as county and other state veterinary associations. Memorials may be left to the discretion of the family or to a charity of your choice. Visitation Mon, Nov 30, -0001 Service Mon, Nov 30, -0001