SOUTH ROYALTON, VT
Robert A. "Bob" Thomas, 88, passed away Wednesday morning, July 13 at the Mt. Ascutney Hospital in Windsor after a period of failing health.
Bob was born June 8, 1928 in Sheddsville, VT the youngest child of Robert and Margaret (Aiken) Thomas.
In the 1950's Bob and his wife, Bev moved with their daughters to the Sharon and South Royalton area when he became the manager of Windsor County Farmer's Exchange. He later was employed as a tool and die maker at the former Cone Blanchard Machine Tool Company in Windsor for thirty one years until his retirement.
Since 1971, Bob was an active member of Rising Sun Lodge #7 where he had held many different chairs. For many years, he enjoyed preparing oyster stew dinners for the Lodge and the American Legion Post #51 in South Royalton.
Through the years, Mr. Thomas also enjoyed deer hunting and spending time at hunting camp. He was an accomplished woodcarver. Family members and close friends proudly own wood carving created by Bob, and for many years, he hosted weekly carving sessions in his shop. He was a member of Green Mountain Woodcarvers and enjoyed doing demonstration at the annual Tunbridge World's Fair.
Affectionately nicknamed "Lorenzo" by his family, "Gramp" could fix anything. He took great pride in maintaining his homes and the grounds.
He loved family gatherings that also included grandchildren and great grandchildren. The presence of Josh Benson and Tera, and Jon, Bradley and Brooklyn of Tunbridge and Sarah Hull and Owen, Greta and Morgan of Fairfax always brightened his day. As well as, David Hull of Fairfax. He had fond memories of Janie's family Alan, Dakota, Shawn and Lyndsey Stender.
He was predeceased by his parents, two daughters, Mary Jane Stender in 1999 and Kristeen Thomas in 1969 and by three brothers and one sister.
Survivors include his wife of sixty nine years, Beverly Thomas of South Royalton, two daughters, Susan Benson and her husband, Leon of South Royalton and Judith Toom and her husband, Mati of Colchester, VT, one son in law, Ronald Stender of Sharon, VT, four grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
At his request there will be no formal services. Memorial contributions may be made to the Royalton Memorial Library Capital Campaign at PO Box 179, South Royalton, VT 05068.
The Knight Funeral Home in Windsor assisted with the arrangements.