Ben J. Thomas, 69, died in his home early Friday morning, September 26, 2014. He was born in Milan, TN on September 17, 1945 to Frank and Maude (Thompson) Thomas. He married Margaret Hampton on July 6, 1972 in Angola, IN. He is survived by his wife Margaret Thomas, his children, Tracy (Airrion) Calhoun, Byron and Myron (Charity) Thomas and 7 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank & Maude; brothers, P.H. Hutchinson, Charles, Raymond, Jamie Lee and Dan. After 30 years of service, Ben retired from the local Pipefitters 669. He was a member of the Goshen Church of Christ and enjoyed fishing, bowling, barbecuing and laughing with his grandchildren. Funeral Services 2:00 Wednesday, October 1, 2014 at Chapel Hill Funeral Home, 10776 McKinley Hwy. Friends may call one hour prior to services at the funeral home. The family''s preferred memorial is United Cancer Services of Elkhart Co. 23971 U.S. 33, Elkhart, IN 46517. To sign the guestbook or to leave condolences for the family, please visit www.chapelhillmemorial.com.