R. Colen “Colen” Thomas, passed away early in the morning Sunday, July 15, 2012, at the Care and Wellness Center of the White Stone Masonic Home in Greensboro. Colen had been in declining health for a few years, and had recently sustained a serious injury in a fall at another assisted living facility.
Services for Colen will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 18, at the Hanes Lineberry Funeral Home Chapel, 515 North Elm St., Greensboro. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at 10 a.m., also at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service at Lakeview Memorial Park, Highway 29, Greensboro.
Colen was born July 11, 1921, in Moore County, the fifth of six children born to Henry B. and Catherine R. Thomas. After high school graduation, Colen volunteered for service in the U.S. Army during World War II. Shortly thereafter he was transported to the Pacific theater and served in New Guinea and then the Philippines (upon the return of MacArthur to recapture the Philippines), where he was promoted to the level of staff sergeant and was awarded several medals, including the Purple Heart and Bronze Star.
After the war service he decided to use GI Bill benefits and attended and graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill with a degree in American history. After graduating, Colen made a career in sales and then owned Thomas Printing Inc.
He retired in 1989 and he and Dot enjoyed traveling and ballroom dancing. Additionally he was an Oddfellow and member of Buena Vista Lodge No 21, I.O.O.F., where he participated in charity work and was an active member as long as he was physically able.
He was predeceased by his mother and father and all siblings. Colen is survived by his wife, Dot; daughter, Beth Mueller (Jeff); and several nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro, 2500 Summit Ave., Greensboro, NC 27405, or to the charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be made at www.haneslineberryfuneralhomes.com.
The family is being assisted by Hanes Lineberry Funeral Home, Greensboro
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