Christopher Alan Thomas, 50, of Pence, passed away unexpectedly on May 26, 2019.      He was born on April 6, 1969 in Portsmouth, VA. In 1980, he moved to Wisconsin with his family. He graduated from the Hurley school in 1987, and from there he then went on to join the United States Navy. After four years in the service, he was honorably discharged with a rank of Petty Officer Second Class. Following his years in the Navy, he was employed at the White Pine Mine until they closed in 1995. From there he went on to graduate from WITC-Ashland where he studied to be a machinist. After that, he held numerous positions in the trades industry, most recently at Ashland Industries.       He loved anything with an engine and was there for anyone that needed help.      Chris is survived by his father, William Thomas of Gile; step mother , Jeanne Thomas of Gile; daughters, Ashley Thomas of Ironwood, Alicea (Justin Kann) Thomas of Hurley; grandson, Calvin Kann; brothers, William (Jil) Thomas of Tampa, FL, Carl Thomas of Gile, Richard (Ann) Thomas of Superior, WI; sisters, Dawn Barnedt of Pendelton, OR and Stacy (Francis) Oakgrove of Ironwood; step brother , James (Sylvia) Gidley of Germany and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.       Chris was preceded in death by his mother, Martha Jean (Gregory) Thomas and step- brother , Eddie Gidley.      A memorial service will be held at the McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home in Ironwood starting with a visitation from 10-11: 00am on Saturday, June 1, with a service to follow with Pastor Don Nickolson, officiating.    McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home, Ironwood, is assisting the family.  For more information or to express online condolences, please visit mckevittpatrickfuneralhome.com.