Arnold Paul Thomasson died March 27, 2012.

He was born March 17, 1923, in Gardar, N.D., to Arni and Emma (Kruse) Thomasson. Due to his father’s death and mother’s illness, he and his brother were sent to an orphanage and, later, to the Jeff Home in Auburn, Wash. His high school principal eventually arranged for him to live and work at Smith Family Dairy. When World War II began, he and a friend enlisted in the Army. A majority of his time was spent in the South Pacific. He was a forward observer and earned the rank of sergeant. While on leave, he met his future bride, Darlene Minnie Klinkel. They were wed Jan. 31, 1947, and made their home in Enumclaw, next to her family home.

Following the war, he took a job at Valley Supply Co-op delivering oil to heat homes. Later he and his wife founded Valley Pump. He operated the business until 1986 when he sold it and retired. He enjoyed camping and was active in the Holiday Ramblers Club, was a member of the Kiwanis and Elks. He enjoyed playing pinochle and other card games. He and his wife owned a winter getaway in Mesa, Ariz., and traveled south each year.

He is survived by sons Ron Thomasson and wife Marlene of Ocean Shores, Wash., and Tim Thomasson and wife Cathy of Enumclaw; daughters Patricia Stangland and husband Steve of Lake Tapps and Karen Olson and husband Larry of Enumclaw; 13 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances can be made in his name to Cascade Caregivers, 2885 Elmont Ave., Enumclaw, 98022.

A service to celebrate his life will take place at 11 a.m. Friday, April 6, at Wabash Presbyterian Church, 18325 S.E. 384th St., in Auburn.