Patricia Thomas

April 25, 1943 – December 10, 2020

Patricia peacefully lost her battle with cancer on December 10, 2020 at home surrounded by family.

Patricia was born on April 25, 1943 in Mason City, Iowa to Carroll and Dorothy Hensel.  At the young age of 8 she lost her mother Dorothy and was raised by her paternal grandparents Marie and Oscar Hensel in Alexander, Iowa.  Patricia married Bill Meinholdt on February 14, 1964.  That marriage brought her three children, Robert Meinholdt (Cecilia), Beth Meinholdt, and Barb Scott (Jamie).

On August 5, 1989, Patricia married Ben Errol Thomas.  This marriage brought her four stepchildren, Craig Thomas, Karen Liddell (Patrick), Mike Thomas (Jill), Mark Thomas.

She ran a daycare out of her home for many years and later in life worked in the bakery at Eagle and Browns grocery stores.  She was known for her kind spirit and generous heart.  She was known as "Mom" to many.  Family was always her priority and she loved spending time with them.  She was always prepared with fresh baked cookies in case company came.  She enjoyed painting, gardening, and baking.

Patricia was preceded in death by her Mother Dorothy, Father Carroll, Grandparents Marie and Oscar and Stepson Craig.

Patricia is survived by her husband Ben (Errol), her brother Thomas (Cathy) Hensel, sister Kathy Steding; children, Rob, Beth, Barb, Karen, Mike and Mark.  Also, her grandchildren, Audrey Meinholdt, Bailey Meinholdt, John Liddell, Alex Liddell, Taylor Thomas, Mitchell Thomas, and great granddaughter Aofie Liddell. Nieces and Nephews Ben and Jill (Hensel), and Matt and Jane (Steding).

She will be greatly missed by all.

Cremation has taken place. A "celebration of life" will be scheduled at a future date.