Obituary of Irvine Alexander Thomas

With great sadness, the family of Irvine Alexander Thomas announces his passing on Monday, November 13, 2023 at the age of 93. Irvine passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at Hospice House.

Irvine will be greatly missed by his wife of 68 years, Faye Thomas; his three children, Rhonda Thomas (Danny Copp), Danny Thomas (Julie Dubeau) and Greg Thomas (Francine Cyr); his five grandchildren, Emily Thomas (Jackson Gillon), Jonathan Thomas, Christopher Thomas (Jaime White), Zoé Thomas (Wilson Mittelstaedt), and Sasha Thomas; step-granddaughters, Heather Copp (Max Pollack) and Trish Duguay (Andrew) and their children. He is also survived by his brother Bob Thomas, and his many nieces, nephews and in-laws.

He was predeceased by his parents, Herb and Ida Thomas, and his siblings Earle, George, Verna, Ralph, Mary, Jean, Clara, Allen, and Eldon.

Irvine was born in Tay Creek, New Brunswick, on February 1st, 1930. He went to the Queen Charlotte Islands (now called Haida Gwaii) at age 18 for work before returning to Fredericton where he had a prosperous career at Clark’s Chevrolet Dealership for 41 years. He talked very fondly about his career and the many relationships he maintained. Irvine had a vibrant sense of humour; he was a brilliant story teller and had such a clever way of making anyone who knew him smile. He loved to play 45s with friends and family, and this became a daily activity with Faye in recent years. Irvine could fix anything and was always eager to help his children and grandchildren. Family meant the world to him. He was heavily involved in his grandchildren’s lives, as a devoted attendee at hockey and baseball games, violin recitals and any family event. His generosity, selflessness and kindness were remarkable. The family feels grateful to have had the honour of having Irvine as the centre of our lives for so many years.

Visitation will be held at York Funeral Home, 302 Brookside Drive, Fredericton on Saturday, November 25 at 1 pm, with the funeral following directly at 2 pm to be officiated by Rev. Paul Ranson with a reception to follow. The family would like to thank the staff at Hospice House and the Extra-Mural nurses for their kindness, compassion and amazing care. Remembrances can be made to Hospice House or the Woodlands Cemetery Fund in Irvine’s memory. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com