Charles Ernest Thomas, 83, of Kelso, Wash., passed away Saturday, March 19, 2011.

He was born June 1, 1927, in Roseville, Calif., and spent most of his life in Northern California.

He served in the U.S. Army and later made a career in law enforcement, retiring as a detective sergeant with the Roseville Police Dept. in California. After retiring, he and his wife, Betty Lou, lived an interesting and adventurous life on their boat, “Betcha,” on the Sacramento Delta, and later enjoyed traveling the U.S. in their RV. Charlie was known for his love of music, teaching himself to play the banjo and later compiling CDs of music for his enjoyment and the enjoyment of others.

Survivors include a son, Michael of Princeton; a granddaughter, Janine Anthis and her husband, Joe of Patoka; and four great-grandsons, Alex, Hayden, Jacob and Wyatt Anthis.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 51 years, Betty Lou; his parents, Marjorie and Charles Eldrige Thomas; and two brothers, Merlin “Mo” and Jerry.

There will be no services.

Cards of condolence may be made mailed in care of Cascade Northwest Funeral Chapel at Green Hills Memorial Gardens & Crematory, 1939 Mount Brynion Road, Kelso, WA 98626