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Thomas G. Reul, 95

Thomas G. Reul of Hayden Lake, Idaho, passed away suddenly at his home on Thursday, June 9, 2017. He was born in Milwaukee, Wis., Aug. 28, 1921, to Charles G. and Ruby M. Reul. He lived in West Allis, Wis., until 1939. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in March 1942 and served 14 months with the 3rd Amphibious Corps in Guam and in 1945, served six months in North China.

He farmed and ranched in South Dakota for 10 years and worked as an illustrator with the U.S. Forest Service in Missoula, Mont., and in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, until 1983. He enjoyed his retirement in the beauty of the land; camping, hiking, traveling, fishing, golfing, skiing and biking.

He is remembered by a loving family and his many friends as a well-mannered, humorous, and gentle soul whose passion for knowledge and creativity only gained in intensity as he grew older. To the delight of those who knew him, he spent much of his retirement in his shop and studio creating countless masterpieces in clay sculpture, wood carving and turning, and painting.

He was preceded in death by his infant son, Roger Alan Reul; brother Charles Osbourne Reul; his wife of 30 years, Sylvia June Moss; his wife of 28 years, Ida Ruth Blankenship and his stepson, Cliff Blankenship. He is survived by his daughter, Judy Reul; son Lane Reul; stepsons Jim Blankenship (Bernice) and Bob Blankenship; and stepdaughters Mary Ellen McDonald (Rusty) and Betty West (Gerry); and his wonderful grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

There will be a celebration of life for friends and relatives from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, July 30, 2017, at Hayden Lake Country Club, 2362 E. Bozanta Drive, Hayden Lake.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit and sign Thomas’ online guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.