Gene Thomas ... former Rochester Rotary president; at 87

ROCHESTER - Maynard "Gene" Thomas (aka Grampy), died on Saturday, March 29, five weeks shy of his 87th birthday.
Born on May 5, 1938, in Zaleski, Ohio, Gene was the son of Maynard and Virgene (Saylor) Thomas. He was born at home, and word is that his dad had to borrow $25 from his father in law, Norman Saylor, to pay the doctor.
Gene was a hard worker and dedicated family man, earning his bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, while working nights at the train station, getting married and welcoming his first child. He went on to enjoy a successful career in the paper industry, first at Mead in Ohio and Massachusetts, then as general manager for Lydall in Rochester.
During his years at Lydall, Gene was a respected member and president of the Rochester Rotary Club where he enjoyed many professional relationships. He was also an avid golfer, a 40 plus year member of the Rochester Country Club, where he made many lifelong friendships. He will be remembered by the many lives he touched, especially those who benefited from his generosity, always willing to help anyone who had a need.
Gene found great happiness spending his golden years with his wife at their family home on Lovell Lake, where he created lasting memories with family and friends. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife, Joy (Goff) Thomas; their three children, Victoria Ridlon; Eric Thomas and his wife, Marcia; and Doug Thomas and his wife, Shannan. He also leaves behind his siblings, Jim Thomas of Lakewood, CO, and Anita Sulzer and her husband, Craig, of Chillicothe, OH; as well as eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Gene believed in and accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. His faith became such an important part of his life, and he often prayed for and thanked God for his family and the life he enjoyed. He passed knowing he had a home forever in heaven. His family is assured of this Truth by Jesus' words from John 14:2 "In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you". His family is comforted by Revelation 21:4 "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."
Grampy will be greatly missed by his family. However, he leaves us with an eternal legacy of love, generosity and hope that will remain for generations.