Donald S. Thomas

ROYALSTON - Donald S. Thomas, 82, of Two Neale Road, died Thursday, August 4th in the Quabbin Valley Healthcare, Athol, following an illness. He was born in Pittsburgh, PA. on January 21,1923, the son of Roy H. and Eva L. (Saalinger) Thomas and had resided in Columbus, Ohio before moving to Royalston three years ago. Don was a graduate of Carrick High School in Pittsburgh and attended the University of Pittsburgh. He was a self-employed manufacturer's representative. He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War Two and was discharged with the rank of Captain. He was awarded the American Theatre Ribbon and World War Two Victory Medal. Don was a long time Rotarian and was a past president of the Myrtle Beach, SC Rotary Club and was a current member of the Athol Rotary Club. He was a former member of the Hilliard Rotary Club in Columbus. He was a member of the William D. McIlory Masonic Lodge #758 in Pittsburgh and was a 32nd degree Mason. An avid golfer, he was a former member of the Heritage Golf Club in Columbus. Don leaves his wife of 60 years, Harriett E. (McElveen) Thomas of Royalston; three daughters, Suzanne T. Reegler of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA, Joan T. Johnson of Columbus, OH and Nancy T. Monette of Royalston, with whom he resided; three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. Burial will take place in the Mass. Veterans' Memorial Cemetery, Winchendon. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Gardner Visiting Nursing Association, 34 Pearly Lane, Gardner, MA. 01440. The Snow-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 central Street, Winchendon is directing arrangements. www.snow-ladeau.com