Michael ThomasCLAPP6 May 1933 - 30.10.2023
Michael died suddenly but peacefully aged 90 beside his beloved wife, of 64 years, Mary. He had been living in Devon, having moved from Reigate a few years ago. Before his move he had lived in and around Reigate for his whole life. He and Mary met and fell in love as teenagers before marrying in 1959. They both loved dancing and followed Big Bands around dance halls and holiday camps in the 50s and 60s and had some wonderful, happy times with friends and family. Michael worked as an electrical Engineer at Philips Research for years before becoming landlord of The Foresters at Shaws Corner, Redhill. He and Mary spent many happy years there working hard alongside each other. The pub became a busy, happy and friendly place for many people who became good friends. It was a great pub and there was lots of laughter as well impromptu singing and, of course, dancing. Mike had always loved sport having played in goal for Redhill Town as a young man and as a good all-rounder cricketer, which he played for many years. On his weekly day off from the pub it was no surprise that he discovered golf which he took to with a passion. He loved the challenge and the company of great friends at some lovely courses in the UK and abroad and he continued playing into his 80s. He also became a Freemason when he joined The Royal Albert Edward Masonic Lodge and undertook his various roles over the decades of his membership very seriously. Michael was loved so much by Mary, who is missing him terribly, and by his two daughters, his son and his five grandchildren.
The funeral service will take place at 12.20pm on the 28 November 2023 at The North Devon Crematorium Barnstaple Devon Mary and the family hope to have a celebration of Michael's life in Redhill in the New Year where all his family and friends will be warmly welcomed.
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