Death Notices

THOMAS, Wayne Reesor (March 5, 1947 - January 17, 2022) - passed away peacefully at Norfolk General Hospital, Simcoe on Monday, January 17th, 2022 in his 75th year.  Wayne was the beloved husband of Elaine Thomas of Simcoe and a loving father and grandfather of four children and eight grandchildren: Mason Thomas of Dain City and his daughter Reese; Adam Thomas of Kitchener and his children Ivy and Farrah; Maggie Gale (Michael) and their children Willa, Winifred and Russell Wayne; and Daniel Cooper of Simcoe and his daughters Elliott and Navy.  Wayne will be sadly missed by his two brothers: Mark Thomas (Laurie) of Florida, Greg Thomas (Liz) of Bequia and by all his nieces, nephews and extended family.  Wayne left a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path and will be deeply missed by countless friends and acquaintances.  Everyone who knew Wayne will remember him as having a wonderful sense of humour, a generous spirit, always with a story to tell and some pearls of wisdom (Wayneisms) or advice to conquer any of life’s puzzling challenges.  He was an avid fisherman, golfer, woodworker and never turned down the opportunity to participate in a DIY project. Wayne was a dedicated teacher and held the position of Superintendent of schools for both the Norfolk and Grand Erie District School Boards. He also worked for the Ministry of Education in the Special Education Branch. A private funeral “by invitation only” will be held at the JASON SMITH FUNERAL CHAPEL, 689 Norfolk St. North Simcoe N3Y 3R3.  A celebration of Wayne’s life will be announced at a later date.  Those wishing to donate in memory of Wayne are asked to consider Stix’n Pix or the Salvation Army - donations may be mailed to the Smith Funeral Chapel.  Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the Thomas family may be shared at www.smithfuneralchapel.com (519) 426-0199