Platte County paid tribute to former sheriff Tom Thomas this week, after the death last week of the retired sheriff of almost 30 years.

JEANETTE FAUBION/Citizen photo
Former Platte County sheriff Tom Thomas died on Dec. 29 in Kearney, Mo.

Elected in 1968 and taking office in 1969, Thomas served as sheriff until his retirement in 1996. The law enforcement center at the Platte County Administration Building bears his name and photo, which was draped in black after officials learned of his death Sunday, Dec. 29 at his home in Kearney.

Sheriff Mark Owen spoke in his memory at the Monday, Jan. 6 commission administrative session, stating he and a few others still employed in the sheriff’s office had the honor to work with Thomas.

“I don’t want to say Platte County was lawless when he took office, but it was pretty close,” Owen said. “He took us a long ways to where we are today. I can’t thank him enough — he gave me my chance.”

At the time of his retirement, Thomas was the longest-serving sheriff in the state. The first Republican to hold the office, he served with the Kansas City Police Department prior to his election.

Presiding commissioner Ron Schieber gave his condolences to Thomas’ family, as well as to those with which he served.

A private funeral service will be held Saturday, Jan. 11 in Kearney.