On June 25, we said goodbye to Justin’s Father, Jurgen Thomas, who established our company over 50 years ago.
Jurgen emigrated from East Germany and, not long after arriving, heard about the opal fields and settled there to make his mark in late 1961.
His natural affinity for beauty meant that he had almost second sight when it came to cutting opal. He could tell at a glance how an opal should be faced and how to bring the secrets of the nobby into the light.
Jurgen was a true artist; his projects were not limited to opal; he painted in oils, carved in wood and minerals and even turned his hand to furniture making.
He was a loving father to Justin and his sister Simone and a doting Grandfather to Saxon and William. We will miss him dearly, and his knowledge and legacy lives on in Justin.
Here is a video of the two of them talking about carving. Enjoy!
I am truly very sorry to hear about this.
As I mentioned to you previously, I enjoyed very much the videos of you with your Dad.
I could see the very strong bond and admiration you both had for each other.
Your Dad will be with you I’m certain, especially with every stone you cut.
Although he had so much confidence in you, he’ll be able to have that cup of coffee by the water and just relax now…..
My Condolences to you and your Family.
Richie
What a really wonderful tribute to your Dad! Sharing his talent and knowledge with great respect. This is a fine testament to a man! I’m sure he will always be with you whenever you think of him. Thank you and thank you , Jurgen, for sharing your knowledge. I will make myself some balsa polishing sticks and then, I’ll think of him, also! all the best to you and all who love him and you! kindest regards, Marianne Hunter
Jurgen will never be gone as long as he is remembered…
watched their films and felt tutored in finding the gem, and what a gem was deeply sorry for the loss but will celebrate his life and achievements
Every soul shall taste death. Death is inevitable. Annihilation should take place so that the cycle of nature moves.
Dear Jusin, I am so sorry to hear about your father’s death. As his loving son I know how you feel about it and miss him too.
My condolences to you and your dear family members.
MHT,
Dubai.
Dearest Justin; I was so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
My condolences to you and your family. It is hard to loose a parent, especially when they are close and such good mentors. He has certainly taught you well and his talent will live thru you.
Thank you for this tribute video.
Gone but never, ever, forgotten.
Audie
Thanks you to everyone for your thoughts, wishes and kind words. It’s gratifying to know that there is a whole community out there supporting us at this time.
Dear Thomas family,
Please know that my prayers are with you during this time. I know you will miss him. He left a wonderful legacy.
Dear Justin please accept my deepest condolences to you and your family
he will not be forgotten because every artist leaves a bit of himself in each piece of art he create and his spirit lives on forever
best regards
Dominik L,
Poland
Thank you Dominik I appreciate your kind words. I will miss him very much he has been an amazing mentor and dad. He was a huge part of my life. Regards Justin
I’m a bit late with a comment but from what I have seen from your vids Justin your enthusiasm and skill have been rubbed off from your father so the legacy will go on.
literally the only person I can find to teach me to carve was his 5 min video I know I’m way late to this comment but I’m sorry for your loss I was heartbroken to learn my only teacher is already gone would love to see a gallery of his work if there is one
Yes I am sorry he has gone. He had so much more to share as well. He has a small amount left to me but I have a few pieces. This was a solid frog he carved out of black opal potch