Willard E. Thomas, 94, of Indianapolis passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 31, 2016. Willard was born in Indianapolis, IN on January 25, 1922 to Willard J. and Anna C. (Albright) Thomas. Willard proudly served his country during WWII in the Army Corp. He was a member of the American Legion Post 500. He attended Purdue University and enjoyed a successful life-long career as the Superintendent for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, retiring in 1990. Willard enjoyed working in his yard and playing in his garage during retirement. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother James Thomas; sister Mary (Thomas) Riddle; step-daughter Robin (Downey) Rene and step-son-in-law Michael Rene. He is survived by his wife Elnora (Combs, Downey) Thomas; sons Jack (Kim) Thomas and Gary (Sandy) Thomas; step-son, Tim (Deb) Downey; granddaughters, Tempe Thomas, Connie Thomas, Meghan Rene, Anne (Kurt) Rinker; grandsons Ben Jones, Joe Rene, Evan Downey; and many nieces and nephews. Professional arrangements entrusted to Stevens Mortuary, 5520 W. 10th Street, Indianapolis, IN. To leave the family online condolences please visit www.stevensmortuary.net