Bartholomew “Bart” G. Thomas, age 87, a resident of Mayfield, NY passed away peacefully on Saturday January 26, 2019 surrounded by his loving children at St. Mary’s Hospital in Amsterdam, NY. He was born in Amsterdam, NY on May 24, 1931 the son of the late Anthony M. and Pearl M. Shaw Thomas. He was a United States Army Veteran entering the service in 1948.
He was stationed in Fort Hamilton, NY reached the rank of Corporal. He was Honorably discharged in 1951. During the decade of the 1950’s Mr. Thomas was employed by Decca Records, H&P Motors, and American Locomotive Company.
He then relocated to Massachusetts. Mr. Thomas was a self-employed master plumber for over twenty years. He handed down his business to his eldest son, Bartholomew Jr., and then became Building Commissioner for the City of Holyoke in Massachusetts for a period of 10 years.
Upon his retirement he was given the key to the city and was described by the Mayor as revered by all in his field for his high level of skills, his knowledge and his administrative abilities. Anyone who knew Bart would tell you just how proud he was of his work and career during his very busy work life. He instilled in his children a good work ethic.
Mr Thomas was a man of many talents and had many interests. In his retirement he and his wife developed and operated Northwoods RV Campgrounds for approximately 15 years. It is still in operation to date under new ownership.
Survivors include his wife Judith Thomas of Mayfield whom he married in 1976. He is survived by his brother Edward Thomas of Holyoke, MA. , also his children Christine Reynolds ( Ray) , Roberta Thomas, John Thomas of Johnstown NY, Joseph Thomas of Amsterdam, NY and Anthony M Thomas of Indian Orchard, MA.
Mr Thomas also survived by several grandchildren nieces, nephews and great grandchildren. Other survivors include his sister- in -law, Agnes Whitman, and stepson, Thomas Lamphear Sr Mr. Thomas was predeceased by his son Bartholomew G. Thomas Jr., his brothers Robert Thomas, Frank Kenney and his sisters Jennie Snyder, Delores Beaulac, Elaine Thomas and Mary Larkin.
His first wife, Joan, the mother of his children is also deceased. Mr. Thomas was a member of many organizations including: Holyoke Elks Club, Holyoke Country Club, Sacandaga Golf Club, President of Holyoke Revolver Club, and regional president of Building Commissioners Association of the state of MA. He loved boating and fishing.
He taught navigating of many waterways; lakes and oceans. He held a private pilot license as he loved flying. Mr. Thomas was an avid golfer as well.
In his youth he was a champion Golden Glove boxer. Mr. Thomas was a spiritual man and was a current member of the Cranberry Creek Community Church. Family and friends are invited to visitation on Friday February 1, 2019 at the Northville Funeral Home 401 Bridge St. from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. where a funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Burial will be held in Broadalbin-Mayfield Rural Cemetery in the spring.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the Alzheimer’s Association. Condolences may be made to the family online at www. northvillefuneralservice.com To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Bartholomew “Bart” G. Thomas please visit our Sympathy Store.
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