It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Burl "Terry" Thomas, who passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Kenosha, Wisconsin, on Saturday, July 25, 2026. He was born on January 29, 1953, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Burl and Ruth Thomas.

Burl was the proud owner of Thomas Construction Company for 16 years, where he built a reputation for quality craftsmanship, integrity, and hard work. He later served as the Facilities Director at Lake Forest Health & Fitness for 10 years after retiring from construction. In every role, he was known for his unwavering dedication, strong work ethic, and willingness to help others. Above all else, Burl was a father, grandfather, family man, and loyal friend.

Beyond his career, Burl embraced life with passion. He loved riding and working on Harley-Davidson motorcycles, especially his beloved Sportster, and enjoyed cruising with friends. He had a lifelong appreciation for classic muscle cars, with the 1969 Dodge Charger holding a special place in his heart. He also enjoyed camping, electronics, computers, science fiction, spending hours watching TV, or enjoying movies from his extensive collection.

A dedicated survivalist and preparedness enthusiast, Burl believed in always being ready for whatever life might bring and took great pride in protecting and providing for those he loved. He was also an avid collector who believed you could never have too many tools, gadgets, or spare parts-after all, it was always good to have more... because "one is none, two is one, and three is enough." His resourcefulness, self-reliance, and ability to adapt to any situation reflected the quiet strength that defined his life.

Burl's greatest joy was his family. Although there were times when Burl and his children faced challenges in their relationship, the bond and love between them remained. His daughter, Ashley, stayed by his side through both the good and challenging times, offering love, support, and care throughout his life. Burl was incredibly proud of his daughter and the woman she became. He cherished the family she built and the love she gave to those around her.

He is lovingly survived by his daughter, Ashley (Charles) Lennon, and his son, John (Rachel) Thomas; his cherished grandsons, Zackary Lennon, Jackson Lennon, and Christopher Thomas; his sister, Gina (Alonzo) Salazar; his nieces, Jessica and Kimberly Salazar; his beloved Uncle Ronnie (Sharon) Fox of New Mexico; many beloved cousins; numerous extended family members; and his loyal companion, Kody, who will miss him dearly.

He is also fondly remembered by Kelly (James) Hanrahan. Although their marriage ended after 23 years, they remained lifelong friends who continued to care deeply for one another. Burl also leaves behind his lifelong friends of more than 40 years, Terry Young and Chuck and Karen Esau; and more recent friends, Steve, Frank, and Don who will miss him dearly.

Burl was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Burl and Ruth Thomas, and his faithful dog, Annie.

In accordance with Burl's wishes, cremation has taken place, and there will be no public viewing or visitation.

Piasecki Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.

Burl will be laid to rest in Annapolis, Missouri, beside his beloved parents, Burl and Ruth Thomas.

A Celebration of Life honoring Burl will be held at a later date. Family and friends will be invited to gather to share stories, celebrate his life, and remember the many memories he created with those he loved.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to COPD Foundation, PO Box 160112, Miami, FL 33116-0112 httpshttps://www.copdfoundation.org/Ways-to-Give/Donate/Donate-Now.aspx would be greatly appreciated.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who cared for Burl and supported him during the last several years as his health declined. Your kindness, compassion, friendship, and care brought comfort not only to Burl, but to our entire family, and will never be forgotten.

Burl will be remembered for his strength, knowledge, generous heart, and unwavering dedication to his family. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, share his knowledge, or stand beside those he loved. To those who knew him, Burl was a survivor, a fighter, and a man who never backed down from a challenge. To his family, he was the kind of man they believed would always be there—strong, resilient, and always ready to fight for the people he loved. His legacy of hard work, resilience, and unconditional love will live on through his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Dad, even though you are no longer with us, you will always be remembered and never forgotten. Through the good and bad times, your memory will live on in the hearts of your family and friends. The love, lessons, strength, and memories you left behind will continue to be cherished forever.