Dillard Thomason

Dillard Gene Thomason, age 79, of Ulysses, Kansas died Wednesday, March 30, 2011 at The Legacy at Park View in Ulysses, Kansas. He was born February 27, 1932 in Wetumka , Oklahoma , the son of Ansel Ray and Virdie Beatrice (Brooks) Thomason.

Dillard grew up and graduated high school in Oklahoma and then served in the United States Army. On January 30, 1952, he married Delores “Dude” Hennigh in Midland , Texas . He moved to Ulysses, Kansas in 1954 and began farming. They also lived in Denver for 13 years and managed the Lion Gate Apartment Building in Cherry Creek. Dillard was a pilot and a member of the Flying Farmers, Masonic Lodge #435, and Ulysses Bit & Spur Club. He enjoyed riding motor cycles, fishing, boating, and golfing.

He is survived by his wife, Dude of the home; two sons, Donnie Thomason of Ulysses, Kansas, Laurence Thomason of Garden City, Kansas; one daughter, Jeannie Bushnell and husband George of Ulysses, Kansas; three brothers, his identical twin, Willard Thomason and wife Phyllis of Ulysses, Kansas, Tommy Thomason and wife Brenda of Odessa, Texas, Milford Thomason and wife Delores of Midland, Texas; seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Dillard is preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Francis Betterton; one son, Darrell Gene Thomason; and daughter Lois Dale.

Memorial service will be held Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 2:00 PM at the Ulysses Mennonite Brethren Church with Pastor Jon Ail officiating and military rites conducted by Dexter D. Harbour American Legion Post #79 in Ulysses, Kansas. Memorial contributions may be given to the grandkids medical fund in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant Ave , Ulysses , KS 67880 .