Fred Lee Thomas , 57, Merrifield, MN, died Friday, March 14, 2014 in a Minot hospital.

Fred was born January 31, 1957 in Kalamazoo, MI to Fred and Mary (Pierce) Thomas. He was raised and graduated from high school in St. Paul, MN.

He made his home in Merrifield, MN. Over the years he was self-employed as a painting contractor throughout Minnesota and recently in North Dakota. He was considered a "Jack of All Trades" when it came to carpentry.

Fred was once united in marriage to Gerri Kuhl on April 25, 1997. This union was blessed to raise four children, Austin, Adam, Ashley and Andrea.

He was an avid fisherman and found he was most at peace when he was outdoors with his family and friends. He will be missed by all who shared in his life.

His loving family includes, sons, Austin Thomas, Watford City, ND, Adam (Holly) Swenson, Watford City, ND along with a granddaughter, Sophee to arrive in July, daughters, Ashley (Aaron) Kuklok, Coon Rapids, MN and Andrea Swenson, Brainerd, MN, sisters, Karen (Thomas) Roach, Kalamazoo , MI, Sandra Thomas, West Virginia and Paula (Howard) Hemne, Northfield, MN, brother Clifford Thomas, New Hope, MN, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents.

No formal services will be held at this time.