BONITA SPRINGS, FLA. — Former Dearborn City Councilman and Dearborn native 

Doug Thomas

 passed away Feb. 6. He was 82.

Thomas served on the city council for a total of 21 years. He was first elected in 1981, holding his seat until 1985 when he made an unsuccessful run for mayor.

He was reelected to the council in 1989, serving for five terms between 1990 and 2009.

During his time on the council, Thomas garnered a reputation as the “Watchdog of Dearborn.” According to his family, his desire was to be remembered as “a servant of the people who fought hard against government corruption.”

Thomas is survived by his wife of 15 years, Jane (Nelson). He is also survived by daughters Pam Thomas and Debbie Kraus, stepson Jeff Valentine, grandchildren Eric and Heather and two great grandchildren.