Michael Thomas

Guilderland- Michael Thomas passed away peacefully on October 28, 2017 at Hospice Inn at St. Peter's; he had been surrounded by family in his final days.

Michael was born in Medford, Mass, the eldest child to Henry and Patricia Thomas. He grew up in Guilderland and graduated from GHS in 1972. He began working for NYS in a mail room and worked his way up to Senior Systems Analyst for Office of Temporary Disability and Assistance. He retired in 2009, with more than 100 people attending his retirement party.

In 1985, he married Monica Gilroy and together they raised two children. Michael took pride in all of his children's accomplishments and never missed a recital, ball game or school concert.

Michael had a great mind; he was a whiz at Trivia and Jeopardy. His eclectic taste in music ranged from classical and jazz to Tom Waits and Tom Petty. An avid sports enthusiast, he followed the NY Mets, NY Jets, NJ and Albany Devils, NASCAR and horse racing; especially the track. He has passed these two passions of music and sports down to his son, Kevin. Michael also loved reading, politics and history; all which he passed down to his daughter, Kara. He enjoyed lunches, movies and quiet time with Monica; golfing and bowling with his friends; vacationing with his Smith cousins in Humarock and spending time with his pets. Mike was always quick with a joke or funny story. Throughout his diagnosis, he displayed positive attitude, dignity and even a sense of humor. The past year he was able to go to Las Vegas, NYC, Clearwater, FL and attended a party thrown in his honor in July. Michael was loved by many and will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Monica; his children, Kara and Kevin Thomas; brother, Richard; sister and end stage caregiver, Mary Benkart (James); sister, Kate LaGuardia (David); aunt and Godmother, Maryann Houston; aunt Jo Smith; cousins; five nieces and nephews; a great nephew; and all of Monica's family who loved him dearly. He is predeceased by his parents, Hank and Pat Thomas; a brother, William.

The family wishes to thank Grace from CDPHP; the doctors and staff of Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia; Dr. Doyle and Dr. Zen; the staff at Hospice Inn and the Family Practice of St. Peter's Hospital and the many friends who assisted in the journey with Mike and Monica.

Calling hours for Michael will be held on Saturday, November 4, 2017 from 2pm until 5pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie, 12205.

Donations in Michael's honor can be made to the Guilderland Food Pantry, P.O. Box 7, Guilderland, 12084 or to Hospice Inn at St. Peter's, 310 S. Manning Blvd, Albany, 12208.