Jeffrey L. “Jeff” Thomas, 65, of Bass Lake, IN passed away unexpectedly at home on Monday, October 5, 2026.
He was born on May 6, 1961 in Ft. Wayne, IN to the late Kenneth M. and Nancy A. (McLain) Thomas. Jeff graduated from Culver Woodcraft Camp in 1974 where he was a drummer in the Drum & Bugle Corps. He was an active member of the Culver Community High School Band and Stage Band. In 1979, Jeff graduated from CCHS and attended Ivy Tech College. On December 31, 1988, he married Phyllis D. Rakowski at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Monterey, IN after a nine-year courtship. Jeff worked for Norfolk Southern Railroad and retired from the DOT-Federal Railroad Administration as a Signal and Train Control Specialist.
Jeff loved music and was a drummer for various local bands. He enjoyed scuba diving, boating, kayaking, and deer hunting, as well as riding dirt bikes and motorcycles. Jeff was a skilled woodworker and accomplished many projects throughout his life. He cherished time spent with friends and family, especially trips to the Florida Keys. Jeff was a kind and giving man who lived life to the fullest.
He is survived by:
Phyllis D. (Rakowski) Thomas, Wife
Douglas L. Thomas (Sandy), Brother
Bernard J. Rakowski (Gretchen), Brother-in-law
Thomas E. Rakowski (Kris), Brother-in-law
Therese M. Rakowski, Sister-in-law
Dana L. Thomas, Niece
Stuart A. Thomas, Nephew
Lindsey N. Kapitanek (Sarah), Niece
James McLain, Uncle
Russell McLain (Vicki), Uncle
Numerous Cousins
Cremation will take place at Frain Crematory in Winamac, IN.
Graveside Services will be held at 11 AM EDT Saturday, October 17, 2026 at St. Anne’s Cemetery in Monterey, IN. with Rev. Dennis Faker officiating.
A Celebration of Life will take place at Monterey Event Center (old Monterey School) from 12 Noon – 2 PM EDT on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
In Lieu of Flowers and Gifts, Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Anne’s Cemetery in Monterey, IN.
Online Tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary in Winamac, IN.
