Marvin C. Thomas

Marvin Thomas, 97, of Ellensburg, Washington, passed away on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.

Marvin was born on October 19, 1928, in St. Edward, Nebraska, to Edward and Ruth Thomas. His family moved to the Pacific Northwest during the Great Depression, eventually settling in Seattle, where Marvin discovered his lifelong passion for music when he began playing the trumpet at age nine.

An accomplished jazz musician, Marvin began performing in swing bands as a teenager. It was at one of these dances that he met the love of his life, Joanne Wakefield. They married when he was 19 and went on to have five children together. Marvin remained active in Seattle's jazz scene for decades and owned Parnell's, a popular jazz club in Pioneer Square.

Marvin worked as a pharmacist and spent approximately 30 years living on Vashon Island. An avid sailor, Marvin explored waters around the world. He and Joanne also shared a love of travel, often bringing their children and grandchildren along on their adventures. They especially loved Mexico and often spent months at a time there.

Marvin moved to Bend, Oregon, in 2002, where he continued playing music and founded a swing band called the Notables. In 2022, he moved to Ellensburg with his daughter to be closer to family.

Marvin was also a passionate gardener, affectionately known to his family as "Poppy" for the beautiful fields of poppies he planted wherever he lived. Even at 97, he could still be found rotatilling his garden.

Marvin is survived by his children, Sherry Thomas, Jay Thomas, and Patricia Tresness; seven grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, Joanne, and his sons, Michael and John Thomas.

Celebrations of life will be held in Seattle and Bend, with details to be announced.

At Marvin's request, memorial donations may be made to the Seattle Jazz Fellowship, available online at seattlejazzfellowship.org

Arrangements have been entrusted to Johnston & Williams of Ellensburg. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.johnston-williams.com