Paul F. Thacker, 73, left this world peacefully at his home Tuesday, September 9, 2014, while holding the hand of his beloved wife. He had fought a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Paul was born on January 25, 1941 in Vinton County, Ohio to Jeremiah and Ethel (Oiler) Thacker.
On September 11, 1966 he married Ruth A. (Johnson) Thacker in Jackson, Ohio.
Paul was a very devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He spent countless hours with his sons, Preston and Jason, both as children and adults hunting, fishing, and in coaching them in various sports.
He attended Wilkesville School and then moved to Martel, Ohio where he was a standout in basketball scoring over 1000 points during his high school career.
Paul’s love for athletics continued throughout his life. He played softball for over 40 years and continued to play until May of this year. When he wasn’t playing himself he was in the stands as the biggest fan of his children and grandchildren while they were playing.
Paul was a skilled mechanic and enjoyed factory work. He was employed at Huber, Marion Power Shovel, and retired from Fairfield Engineering.
Paul was known by friends and co-workers as a man with an outstanding work ethic and he prided himself in that.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents; Jeremiah and Ethel, seven brothers; Jerry, Leo, Dean, Roy (Peewee), Jessie, Ed, and Henry, and four sisters; Betty McKinnis, Sadie McKinnis, Elizabeth Thacker, and Frieda Thacker. Surviving are his wife; Ruth, sons; Preston and Jason, sisters; Clara (Boots) Shelton, Terri Hickman, Della Malone, Vella Yeager, and Ruby Rhoades. Also surviving are two daughter-in-laws; Emily and Frankie, eight grandchildren, and five great grandchildren, as well as special beloved family members; James (Bud) Johnson, Lori Shuster, and many nieces & nephews.
Family and friends may call on Saturday, September 13, 2014, from 1-3 p.m. at the Boyd-Born Funeral Home. Pastor David Holdren will conduct the funeral service following immediately after at 3:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Marion General Hospital Hospice Program. Online condolences to the Thacker Family may be sent to:www.boydbornfuneralhome.com.
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