Thomas, Carey (Carei) Frank "My art allows me to be a fulcrum between heaven and earth" -Carei Thomas Carei was an expansive artist who saw his own dignity as birthright and devoted his art to connect others with the ability to recognize their own. He possessed an infectious sense of community and unity of purpose that is likewise communicated through his music. Carei died peacefully on Thursday, May 28th, 2020 at HCMC in Minneapolis Minnesota. Born on July 23rd, 1938 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Carei was the beloved only son of Mary (Anderson) and Frank Thomas. He was drawn to music from a very early age as he experienced music 'ALwhere'. The family moved to Chicago, Illinois during his teen years where he attended Marshall High School in Chicago's west side. He went on to Roosevelt University and later Chicago Music College where he studied music theory. He spent two years abroad in the army. When he returned from service he worked for the Postal service which financed additional explorations in Europe (and clothes). In the late 60s he met and married Carol (LaPierre) Thomas (divorced in 1980) and had three children Joi, Jaahred and Aairam. In 1972, Carei moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota with his family. Carei's second marriage was to Kathleen Hoerr in 1981; divorced in 1989. Carei married Joyce Heuer Thomas in 1994. In the Twin Cities, Carei was associated for a number of years with the literary, visual arts, dance, music, recovery, neighborhood and Buddhist communities of the Twin Cities. He was known throughout the community for his spiritual energy, interdisciplinary vision and creative music. He attended the University of Minnesota from 1972-1975 studying Music Education/Music Therapy. In 1993, Carei encountered a paralyzing condition called Guillain-Barre Syndrome. This condition did not stop him, but propelled him to greater heights as an artist and individual. He continued to compose, perform and work in the community. He was grateful and overjoyed to receive numerous awards and accolades that buoyed both his heart and his art. He had a special interest in the healing aspects of sound and color, and utilizing art as a tool to enhance educational curriculum. Carei is survived by his dear wife and best friend, Joyce Thomas, daughter Joi, (Paul Feikema), sons Jaahred (Jane), Aairam, Grandchildren Nick, Noah, Claire, Avery, Myles, Lily, Chloe, Malik, Ava and Aaidan, and countless friends, co-creators and family. He was preceded in death by his parents and Aunt Rebecca Boyd. Carei deeply loved his people and his community, and his community was an important part of who he was. His celebration of life will be determined at a later date. (TBA online) Please send memorials to the charity that feeds your heart. "LIFE'S MOMENT" Another precious thing born without wings ALWHERE

Published on May 31, 2020