Thousands turn out for Thomas service

(Kansas City-AP) -- The man Derrick Thomas called "father," said today he was wrong when he said a light went out with Thomas' death a week ago. Before thousands of mourners and admirers in a Kemper

Tuesday, February 15th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Kansas City-AP) -- The man Derrick Thomas called "father," said today he was wrong when he said a light went out with Thomas' death a week ago. Before thousands of mourners and admirers in a Kemper Arena memorial service, Chiefs President Carl Peterson said the light merely dimmed briefly, then came back on -- and is shining today brighter than ever. And the general manager of the N-F-L team said that light was Thomas' smile.

Former Kansas City Mayor Emanuel Cleaver Junior said it will always be 58 degrees at Arrowhead, referring to the number worn by the all-pro linebacker. Chiefs' owner Lamar Hunt called Thomas "a shining light for America." And a letter from President Clinton referred to Thomas as a gifted athlete and a fierce competitor who will be remembered forhis kindness, character and courage.