Clarence "Pook" James Thomas

Clarence “Pook” James Thomas, age 71, of Albia, IA, passed away August 18, 2022 at his home in Albia. Pook was born August 11, 1951, “year of the big wind”, in Hiteman, IA to Albert and Dorothy (Repp) Thomas. He grew up in the Albia area and attended school in Hiteman. He began working at Elburn Packing Plant in Elburn, IL at an early age before the plant closed their doors. He returned to Iowa and began his career at Maytag in Newton until his retirement after 30 years of service at the age of 49. In 1969, Pook was united in marriage to Ruth Chidester, and they were blessed with two children, Kimberley and Frank. Pook and Ruth later divorced. On November 20, 2004, Pook married Wilma “Punkin” Logue and gained two children, Rodney and Ronda Logue. Pook and Punkin shared 34 years together prior to his passing. Pook was a strong man with many talents and the ability to do anything. He was a jack of all trades and throughout the years he found himself helping family and friends with their latest projects. You name it, Pook could do it. There wasn’t anything he couldn’t do or figure out how to. He enjoyed many hobbies, but his passion was in his horses. A passion he shared with 3 generations of family and many friends. Instilling his hard work ethic, wisdom, and horsemanship with those who were willing to take the time to listen and learn. Pook also enjoyed going on road trips to “the boat” with Punkin and striking up conversations with the other patrons swapping stories. He loved his dog, Sam and his friends. Above all, family was everything to Pook and he cherished all of the time spent with them, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Pookie is survived by his wife Punkin of Albia, dog Sam, daughter Kimberley (Scott Blomgren) McCarty of Albia, sons Frank Thomas and Rodney (Heather Smith) Logue of Newton, and daughter Ronda Logue of Newton. 10 grandchildren, Morgan (Derrick Younger), Skylar Thomas, Tyler Thomas, Katelyn Hewitt-Thomas, and Frankie Thomas, Kendi (Garrick) Raridon, Brandon (Holly) Logue, Blake Logue, Kenny John (Kristina) Lamb III, and Austin Lamb. 6 great grandchildren, Cole and Carter Younger, Kadence, Kendrick & Kenzyr, and Kenny John Lamb IV. Sister, Arlene Bush of Illinois, Sisters-in-law, Linda McReynolds Carr, Barb Keenan, and Marcella Thomas of Illinois. Many nieces, nephews, and close friends. Pook was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Frank and Phil; two sisters, Janet and Evelyn; brother in-law Herman McReynolds; and sister-in-law, Peggy Jones. Per Pook’s wishes, his body has been cremated and a private family burial will be held at a later date. Memorials/cards of condolences can be mailed to the Tharp Funeral Home at 116 Benton Ave. West Albia, Iowa 52531.

Clarence "Pook" James Thomas

August 11, 1951 - August 18, 2022