E. Paul Thomas

E Paul Thomas, 84, passed away on January 27, 2026, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Born on October 17, 1941, in Hammond, Indiana, Paul lived a life defined by passion, ingenuity, and an unwavering commitment to both his craft and his loved ones.

A true original in every sense of the word, Paul was a Living Legend in the world of high-octane engineering and stunt fabrication. As one of the original California Galloping Goose members and among the top motion picture stunt car fabricators of his time, he left an indelible mark on the industry. His work was not just mechanical—it was art in motion. Later in life, he brought his expertise to Salt Lake Harley Drag Racing as their top fuel motor engineer, where his brilliance continued to shine at speeds that defied belief.

Paul’s garage was a sanctuary for all things fast and loud. “I love the smell of Nitro(methane) in the morning!” If it couldn’t hit 385 mph in under four seconds or didn’t roar with power, it simply didn’t belong in Paul’s world. His mechanical mind was matched only by his larger-than-life personality: a man who showed up first and left last—on job sites and for his family.

He is survived by his three older sisters: Donna Ward, Kitty Dailey, and Mary Lou Hutchings; his son Jacob (Melanie) Thomas; daughter Sequan Kolibas; and grandchildren Bauer (Tianna) Thomas, Kortlen Thomas, and Zion Kolibas. Each of them carries forward a piece of Paul’s legacy—his humor, his heart, and his relentless drive.

Paul was preceded in death by his mother Mary Bernice Kernan and father Erwin Paul Thomas Sr.; by his beloved wife of 52 years, Victoria Ellen Gaither; and by his oldest son, Marc Dominic Neal.

Known for offering unconditional love and support to those around him—often quite literally giving the shirt off his back—Paul’s generosity knew no bounds. His storytelling antics could light up any room, while his sense of humor brought laughter even during life’s toughest moments.

His absence leaves a void that cannot be filled—but also a legacy that will never fade. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to those who follow in his tire tracks. A Celebration of Life will be held on February 20, 2026, from 02:00 PM to 05:00 PM at Holbrook Mortuary 3251 S. 2300 E. Open mic memory sharing, commemorative Harley ride planning, taco bar