Obituary of Frederick Byron Thomas

THOMAS, Frederick “Byron”, age 76, formerly of Saint John, NB passed away Monday, November 6, 2023. Byron was a graduate of Vocational High School and the NB Community College (Moncton) where he received a diploma in Technical Engineering. Byron proudly served his country as a member of the Canadian Armed Forces including the Rodney Sea Cadets and also later as a reservist in the Royal Canadian Navy where he retired with the rank of Lieutenant Commander in 2004. Byron had a distinguished 35 year career with the Public Service of Canada and was an active member of Portland United Church for much of his life. At Portland, Byron served on numerous committees and made significant contributions to the maintenance of church properties. Byron was an avid amateur photographer whose interests ranged from trains (model and real) to the landscapes and features of Millidgeville and the surrounding area.  Byron was a passionate model railroad hobbyist who would assist with local shows and contribute to model railroad newsletters. Byron had a strong belief in community involvement and charitable activity. He set aside significant time in his life to contribute to the Rodney Sea Cadets, Housing NB, Canadian Blood Services (plasma) and The Regional Hospital (volunteer).  Byron always relished the opportunity to enjoy a pint of good beer and to strike up conversation with anyone who had the time to join him in that activity. Knowing him was not a requirement of engaging in that conversation and, in many moments, talking to a stranger was preferred. Byron was an experienced world traveler and particularly enjoyed his trips to England, his many naval journeys around the globe and long train rides with his friends and uncle Dyson. Many of his travels were documented in the Travel section of the Telegraph Journal and accompanied by his own photographs and there was nothing wrong with that.

Preceded in death by his parents Arthur and Ella (Grant) Thomas, and his brother, Allen. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Bonnie (Hetherington); son, Scott (Alison); daughters, Heather Ross (Joe), Aimee Rolemberg (Adam); and 6 grandchildren: Kayla, Mitchell, Nickolas, Henry, Enzo, Jenna and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 13, 2023, 12:00 pm at Portland United Church, 50 Newport Cres., Saint John, NB. Arrangements are being made at this time for a casual reception to immediately follow that service. The family would like to express our thanks for the exceptional care given by Ridgewood Veterans Wing and the teams at 4CN Internal Medicine Saint John Regional Hospital.