Dear Thomas Family,
I was deeply saddened to learn of Markham's passing. He was truly beloved by his family and many friends. His love and respect for Verdi was limitless and his pride and adoration for Sydney was expressed every time we talked. Markham and I became friends in 1985 when I moved to Chicago to start my career. We met and worked out at same gym and even lived in the same apartment building for a while. Markham was like a big brother to me - showing me around the city he knew and loved. He always seemed to be interested in learning, achieving, and striving to be his best. He worked hard but also knew how to have a good time. He never made excuses and when times were tough, he got tougher. Behind his quick smile and steady stream of jokes, was also a man of compassion and faith. I now realize that when I last saw him (during a trip to California with Verdi for a family wedding), he was quietly, subtly and graciously saying "goodbye." Markam's hospitality, kindness and brotherly love will never be forgotten. May God bless you, my friend.
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My sincere condolences to all of Markham’s family. I knew Markham in high school. He was always engaging everyone in conversation, humorous antics, and non-stop fun. Even after 45 years, I still have wonderfully vivid memories of his joyful smile as we walked the hallways of New Trier together. He has left this earth too soon.
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Verdi and Sydney - Markham was such a wonderful man and I am very lucky to have known him all these years. I wish you peace and comfort during these difficult days. Please let us know of any upcoming funeral or memorial service plans.
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I'm at a loss for words... Markham and I had a conversation back in March regarding my horrible golf swing and how to correct it. We shared some laughs as he said, we'll have to get together and spend some time on the driving range and now, that time will never come. My sincere condolences on the passing of a very good person.
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My dear cousin, Markham, will be greatly missed. My condolences to Verdi, Sydney and Charles, and all the other family members. I’m sorry I’m unable to be there with you. You are in my prayers. Love you all. 🙏🏾🌺♥️
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One of the more vivid memories I have on Markham Thomas is the day that he, myself and Broderick Keller became blood brothers .... we were in 8th grade at Central School in Glencoe ..... .we had talked about doing it for awhile but kept putting it off .... then one day, we said yeah, lets just do it .... we got a small but sharp knife (from where I can't remember) and the three of us cut the thumbs on our right hand just enough to draw blood .... first I shook Broderick's hand and meshed my thumb with his .... then I did the same with Markham .... and finally Broderick and Markham shook hands and meshed their thumbs together .... on that day we all became family .....
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I first met Markham in 1978 working at Baskin Robbins ice cream shop in Glencoe when we were in high school. He always lit up the room with his energy and smile, was always telling stories, and could get anyone to laugh. He was a caring, thoughtful and supportive person who would drop everything if you needed him. I will always have wonderful memories of Markham - scooping ice cream, Caravelle pizza, golf and simply being there. He has left us way too soon and he will be deeply missed.
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2022, Mike's "Retirement" Party
— with
Markham Thomas,
Todd Cocallas
and
Mike Rude
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1992
Dinner in Chicago
— with
Markham Thomas,
Todd Cocallas
and
Mike Rude
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