Ralph Wayne Thomas, age 55, died April 4 at his home on Bainbridge Island.

He was born Sept. 13, 1947 in Seattle to Raymond and Jenny (Lind) Thomas.

He graduated from Rainier Beach High School and later attended Highline Junior College. He served in Vietnam, where he was a cryptography expert. He was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds he suffered during battle.

Following his tour of duty, he served at FortLewis as a drill instructor. He worked various jobs after his military service.

He was an avid rock collector and enjoyed travel. He recently completed a Caribbean cruise with his mother.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. April 9 at Evergreen-Washelli in Seattle.

His mother, Jenny Thomas of Bainbridge Island, and one brother, Dick, of Bothell, survive him.

Arrangements are under the direction of Kass Funeral Home, Bainbridge Island.