Obituary of Gene Papa BearChico

Gene “Chico, Papa Bear” Thayer Born to Lee and Alice Thayer on May 18, 1933 in Anacortes, WA. Went to be with the Lord on November 19, 2011. Chico met and married Betty July 10th 1953. He is survived by his five children, Patty(Duane) Barbara(Matt) Eugene Jr.(Pam) Richard(Terry) George(Lisa) 14 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and friends. Preceded in death by his wife Betty, daughter Sandy and great grandson Marcus. Chico was a member of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe in Toledo WA. He worked at Fibreboard in Sumner then went on to a roofing career. He was a pitcher for fast pitch softball in the Tacoma area for most of his life and was inducted into the Softball Hall of Fame. He sent many players back to the dugout with a "K" in the book and put many balls out of the park. Dad was our Home Run King. Your children had a very good life growing up camping, clamming, lots of ball tournaments. Dad and Mom will be greatly missed. Many thanks to the Staff at Spring Ridge Assisted Living Facility, Dr Carolyn Wild, Dr Frank Kim and the Staff at St Joseph Hosp. Services will be held Saturday Dec 3rd 2011 at 11:00 AM. Lakeview Chapel 4606 108th St. SW, Lakewood, WA 98499. Reception to follow.