February 16, 1928 - October 30, 2023
Bradenton, Florida - William G. Thomas, "Bill," passed away October 30 in the company of his family and devoted caregivers. Born in DuQuoin, Illinois, Bill's family moved to San Diego, California in the late 30's. The Thomas home became a center of hospitality during the war years. After moving to Los Angeles, Bill attended the University of Southern California where he earned a B.A. in Science, specializing in microbiology. That degree took him to St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, CA, where he met the love of his life, Maureen Russell. After serving in the army at Ft. Sam Houston during the Korean War, Bill and Maureen returned to Los Angeles to start their family. Who knew that an expertise in microbiology would lead to a life long career in beer making! Anheuser Busch was expanding its market and Bill took a leading role in developing the company's' national quality assurance protocol. Much to his dismay, that protocol included regular beer tastings. Upon retirement, Bill and Maureen moved to Bradenton to spend more time with their grandchildren. Bill was a volunteer at The Art Center of Manatee and indulged his passion for roses by volunteering at The Ringling Museum inMable's Rose Garden.
Bill had a life long love of the outdoors which he has passed on to his family. While living in California, he hiked and skied the Sierras and fished from Alaska to Mexico. After his move to Florida, he continued to fish and sail with friends and family. He was an avid traveler, frequently visiting Ireland, Scotland and England to visit his wife's family. He later expanded his horizons with trips to Europe, Southeast Asia, the Balkans and the Middle East. His interest in travel is another legacy he has passed on to his family.
Bill is survived by his daughter, Maureen Zaremba (Frank), his son John (Jane), and grandsons Frank (Kara) and Nicholas, step-grandson Geoff, (Tara), and great grandchildren Ben and Olivia. .
A memorial service will be held in the future.
Donations in Bill's name can be made to the Scholarship Fund at Freedom Village, 6406 21st Ave. West, Bradenton, Fl, 34209 or Tidewell Hospice Foundation, 3550 South Tamiami Trail,
Sarasota, Fl 34239 or www.tidewellfoundation.org.
FUNERAL HOME
The Good Earth Crematory
501 17th Ave. W.
Bradenton, Florida
