SEATTLE, WA – Orville Lee Thomas “Zah-Wan-Quat”, age 76 passed away peacefully, Monday, March 16, 2020, at home in Lake Forest Park, Seattle, WA.
He was born to Hollis and Minnie (Soldier) Thomas in Horton, KS, August 10, 1943. Orville was a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation and a Kansas Kickapoo.
He was a Vietnam Veteran, having served in the United States Army, and a retired Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer for King County and locals 302 and 612.
Orville had a varied life and so was a good storyteller. His teasing wit with the sparkle in his eyes will be deeply missed.
Orville is survived by daughters; Irene Hopkinson and Lorinda Thomas, both of Seattle, WA. A sister, Lythia Shopteese of Mayetta, KS and brothers; John Thomas, William “Augie” Thomas and Jim Keo, all of Kickapoo reservation. He is also survived by 6 grandchildren in Washington State and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved very much.
Orville was preceded in death by his parents, sister Ramona Cadue, brothers; Ted “Nacko” Thomas, Edwin “Coke” Thomas and infant granddaughter, Olivia Angeline.
An inurnment service will be held in Kansas at a later date. To leave remembrances please visit www.AcaciaFuneralHome.com.
- Courtesy of the Thomas family