Vincent Irving Thomas

Vincent Irving Thomas died on December 23rd, 2020. His 86 year journey culminated with a five year battle with lung cancer, during which he played golf, travelled, tinkered, fixed, built, invented and never gave up. His desire to compete in life is what kept him smiling and vigorous till the end. Vince's competitive spirit was evident throughout his life. Certainly fostered by growing up as 'one of seven' and rough-housing with three brothers, he always strived to be the best: he played travel baseball as youth, participated in slow-pitch softball well into his forties, coached innumerable boys through little league and provided invaluable coaching tips to the University of Michigan football teams via the television. He made Sno-Jets faster and Chris Crafts run smoother. Later in life, he embraced golf. Many received subtle reminders about how difficult a putt was or where the hazards lines were located, especially in tense situations. He was a keen scorekeeper, everyone's. And Vince's refusal to 'move up' tee boxes lasted until his early eighties. Vincent was a Korean War Veteran. When he returned, he married his wife of 60 years, Dorothy, and became an electrical contractor. Although these events may not have been related at the time, his business thrived for nearly 50 years, likely due in part to the 'behind every great man' effect of his wife. He was an electrician but, more importantly, he could take apart, fix and put back together virtually anything. Many family and friends were the beneficiaries of calling Vince and having him show up with his favorite leather tool pouch. Later in life, with his handy tablet and the internet, he was able to track down the English hooks that became Christmas coat racks and engraving templates that resulted in house signs. If he couldn't find a part, he made it. He was truly loved and will be missed. He is survived by his loving wife Dorothy (Jones); children Steven (Lori), Sandra (Ronald), Julie, and Donna (Nicholas); grandchildren Christiana (Daniel), Hannah (Gage), Aarron, Amanda (Jack), Nicholas and Jessica; and great-grandchildren Daniel and Elliott; his sisters Viola and Eva. He was predeceased by his father and mother Henry and Genevieve Thomas, and siblings: Donald, Kenneth, Alan, and Margie. A Memorial Mass will be held on Tuesday, January 5, 2021 with visitation at 10:00 a.m. and Mass at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary Queen of Creation Church, 50931 Maria, New Baltimore followed immediately by honor guard at the cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at a later date to be announced due to current pandemic restrictions.

Vincent Irving Thomas

October 7, 1934 - December 23, 2020