ELKHART -- Joseph Ronald "Ron" Thomas, 65, of Elkhart, died at 8:12 p.m. Tuesday (Nov. 10, 2009) in the emergency room in Elkhart General Hospital.

He was born Feb. 8, 1944, in Charleston, W.Va., to Joseph C. and Beulah (Stevens) Thomas. On Feb. 17, 1962, he married Donna J. Bess in Indianapolis.

She survives along with two daughters, Rhonda (Charles) Ransom of Bristol and Lori Sproat of Elkhart; one son, Jeffery (Pamela) Thomas of Elkhart; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and his mother of Indianapolis.

He was preceded in death by one son, Randolph C. Thomas.

Mr. Thomas worked as a custom automotive painter and at AMS Corp., Elkhart, for several years, until his health required early retirement. He was a street rod enthusiast and member of the Hart City Street Rod Association.

He loved Chinese food, enjoyed visiting "the boat," was an avid fisherman and a loyal Elvis fan, often impersonating him at parties. He was part of a pool league at Barney's Bar, Elkhart.

Mr. Thomas was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War who served with the 54th Infantry Division.

Cremation has occurred. No services have been planned, but a memorial is pending. Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, is assisting with arrangements.

Memorials may be given to the J. Ron Thomas Memorial Fund, care of Billings Funeral Home. Visit www.billingsfuneralhome.com to send online condolences.