Thad Cheatham

Thad Cheatham, age 47, loving husband, father, brother and son, returned to his Heavenly Father from injuries sustained in an automobile accident near South Pass, WY. on May 12, 2014.  

Thad was born on March 30, 1967 in Powell, Wyoming, the son of Clair and Vida Cheatham.  Thad grew up in Greybull, WY.; where he excelled in football, basketball, drama, singing, and he was chosen to be in the all state choir, and was elected as a boys state representative from his high school.  Thad and his brother Eric were one of the few boys to join cooking class so they could meet the girls.  He enjoyed “accidently” missing the school bus so they could go play games at grandma Nations home.  

Thad met the love of his life, Susan Wainwright in Kemmerer, Wyoming in 1985, and they were married on November 8, 1986.  They knew they had found love at first sight, and each others soul mates.  They were later sealed for time and all eternity in the Jordan River L.D.S. Temple, on June 24, 1988.  They were immediately blessed with five wonderful children, and recently four grandchildren.

Thad blessed the lives of those around him with his desire to continually serve and teach others, where he would even stop at the side of the road to help a complete stranger.  In his early 20’s, he graduated from Cheyenne Aerotech as an A&P mechanic.  He also was able to fullfill his life long dream of becoming a pilot.  He shared this passion with his family taking day trips as he showed them the country from the air.

Thad was a hard worker, and instilled these values in his children.  His line of work and education allowed him to travel the country.  He was considered an expert in his field, often fixing aircraft that others had given up on.  During the traditional 4th of July St. George trip, his family enjoyed his wonderful cooking as he made the best cinnamon rolls and caramel popcorn to be found.

Thad was so proud and supportive of his children.  He truly enjoyed his son’s athletic skills, and he was an avid Denver Broncos fan. He also enjoyed his daughter’s artistic and musical talents.

Previously, Thad donated a kidney to a loving friend, and in death, his life and legacy will live on in the lives of others due to the fact that he was an organ donor at the time of his death.

Thad is preceded in death by his mother, grandparents, and various aunts and uncles.  
Thad is survived by his wife, Susan Cheatham, his father, Clair (Arlene); children and grandchildren, a son, Tyler (Jen) and their son, Ethan; a son, Michael (Bunny) and their children, Eli, LilyAnna, and Emmett;  a daughter, Valerie; a daughter, Catherine;  a daughter, Holland; and a son, Jackson.  He is also survived by his siblings, Max, Lance (Darlene); Dan (Sandy); Ann (Lyle); Eric (Sarah); and Teresa. He is also survived by his mother in law, Sandy Wainwright.

Visitaiton will be held at the Kemmerer L.D.S. Stake Center from 10:00 A.M. Until time of services on Saturday.  Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, May 17, 2014 at 11:00 A.M. At the Kemmerer L.D.S. Stake Center, Kemmerer, Wyoming, with Bishop Destry Dearden officiaitng. Interment will be held at the South Lincoln Cemetery, Kemmerer, WY.