Douglas Duane Thomas

Douglas Duane Thomas, beloved son, brother, and friend, passed away on April 19th, 2026, in Boston, Massachusetts due to cardiac arrest. Born in Hamilton, Montana on June 19th, 1969, Doug was the cherished child of Florence Stuart Bushnell and John “Sparky” Thomas. He graduated from Hamilton High School in 1988 and went on to live in Idaho, California, Montana, and Las Vegas, Nevada. It was in Las Vegas where Doug attended The Art Institute of Las Vegas graduating with honors and earning an Associates of Science Degree in Baking and Pastry. He specialized in cake decoratorating—a passion inspired by his maternal grandmother, Helen Wright.

Doug eventually settled in Boston, where he spent the last nine years and formed deep bonds with his brothers and best friends, Bobby and Steve, together known as the Golden Guys. Doug fulfilled his dream as the Bakery Manager for Roche Brothers Supermarket, where he delighted in decorating cakes and sharing his expertise with others. He was admired for his strong work ethic, working six days a week and leading by example.

Doug was preceded in death by his father John “Sparky” Thomas, bonus dad Lynn Gordon, stepmom Kay Moorman and stepdad Gary Bushnell and his grandparents Howard Stuart, Pat Wright, Helen Wright, Chap Thomas, and Floss Thomas. He is survived by his mother Florence Bushnell of Challis, ID; sisters Tammy (Bubba) Riley of Hamilton, MT and Dawn (Levi) Maydole of Challis, ID; brothers Robert Snowden and Stephen Tighe of Boston, MA; nieces and nephews Jonathan (Rachel) Riley of Nampa, ID, Sam Maydole and Tristan Maydole of Boise, ID, and Nick (Alli) Riley of Darby, MT; great-nieces Rebekkah, Lyza, Serenity; great-nephew Odin; as well as many extended family members. Doug’s kind heart, generosity, and warm spirit were treasured by all who knew him.

A true giver, Doug would gladly offer the shirt off his back to anyone in need. In keeping with his selfless nature, Doug chose to be an organ donor and was able to save three lives through the donation of his organs. He will be dearly missed and remembered for the love, kindness, and joy he brought to all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Doug also had a passion for animals with a particular love of bears. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to an animal sanctuary or humane society of your choice.

There will be a memorial service honoring Doug on May 16th at 1:00 p.m. at Kiwanis Park in Hamilton, MT. The service will also be live streamed on Facebook for those unable to attend.