PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Francis G. Thomas of Pittsfield, Mass., passed away peacefully on December 20, 2017.  He was 95 years old.

Frank was a hard-working, modest, meticulous man, much beloved by his family. He was educated in Pittsfield schools. He was a veteran of the Second World War, where he was stationed in China. He was a participant in the Burma Road campaign to muster the U.S. and Chinese forces against Imperial Japan. During that time he met General Chiang Kai-shek, who became the President of the Republic of China.

When Frank returned from the war he married the love of his life, Gloria Botto, who became his partner in a wonderful 70-year marriage.  

For many years Frank operated Thomas Fruit and Produce, which supplied fresh fruits and vegetables to families and restaurants in Berkshire County and neighboring New York State. He also drove charter buses for Yellow Coach Lines, and in the latter part of his career worked in General Electric’s Power Transformer Division. He retired from GE at age 62, and he and Gloria enjoyed a 33-year retirement.  They enjoyed winters in Dade City, Fla., for many of those years.

Frank loved fishing, camping and the great outdoors. He, Gloria and son Gary spent many fun summer week-ends tenting in New England.   

Francis is survived by his wife, Gloria Thomas; his son Gary F. Thomas; and his daughter-in-law, Jay Thomas.

Funeral notice: A Private Graveside Service for Francis G. Thomas will take place at St. Joseph's Cemetery at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Shriner's Children's Hospital in care of Flynn & Dagnoli-Bencivenga Funeral Home, 5 Elm Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201.