Livonia: Passed peacefully on May 5, 2018 at age 92. Survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Marjorie and children; Bonny (Cork) VanDerMeid of Livonia, Debbie (Ron) Baker of Fairport, and Larry (Sue) Thomas of Honeoye; grandchildren, J. Scott VanDerMeid (Dr. Shinji Sato), Brent Baker, Justin Baker, Christopher Thomas and Michael (Alisha) Thomas; brother Alvin (Francis) Thomas, several nieces & nephews, and many friends in the Livonia Community.
Max, a veteran of WWII and the Korean Conflict, worked as a business teacher, and as a guidance counselor before helping to start the BOCES Charles G. May Occupational Center in Mt. Morris. After working at the Center for 16 years, he retired as its Director of Occupational Education in 1982. He has also contributed many hours of community service over the years and has been active as a volunteer in Rotary and the Methodist Church of Livonia. Max was also member of Phi Beta Kappa. As part of his life philosophy of bringing people together, he started the international program in Livonia.
No prior calling hours. Family and friends are invited to attend his Memorial Service on Wednesday, May 9th, at 10:30am at the United Methodist Church of Livonia, 21 Summers Street, Livonia, NY 14487. Burial Union Cemetery, Livonia, NY with US Navy Military Honors. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the United Methodist Church of Livonia at the address above or the Epilepsy-Pralid Camp EAGR, 2 Townline Circle, Rochester, NY 14623 or a charity of your choice. To send a condolence or share a memory please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com
Our heartfelt condolences go out to you and your family. Know that you are remembered in our thoughts and prayers.
My deepest sympathy to Marge and family. I’ll always be grateful for the time we spent together last fall. Max was a walking book of knowledge and a warm and welcoming man. He will be missed by all of us who had the privilege to know him.
Debbie and Family,
My Sincere Condolences on your loss. Laurie, Lisa, and I recently experienced similar with my Mom, Carolyn (97 y/o). I remember Max as being involved in so many things, especially in the school. He almost always had a smile and cheerful greeting for everyone. Thoughts like these often warm my heart; and let me feel that the world is still okay. May all Healing prayers and energy find their home in your hearts and homes, and help sustain and carry you all in this time.
Thoughts are with the family. RIP and I am sure he will.
Mrs. Thomas, Debbie, Larry and Bonny and family,
I got to know Max at while at Rotary. What a fine gentleman, Always in a good mood. He set a great example to all of us. Thoughts and prayers are coming your way.
Bonny and Scott – We are so sorry for your loss. Max was always walking by our house over the years, and always had such a smile on his face. He was a wonderful man. Our prayers are with you and your family.
We are so sorry for your loss; we all have such fond memories from the past. Emma sends her condolences and is thinking of Marge and how thankful she was to have enjoyed such a nice phone conversation when Max called last year and she got to speak to both of you. He will be missed by everyone who was privileged to know him. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Debbie,
Prayers and condolences for you and your family. May your Dad rest in peace.
My sincere condolences to the family.He was always a kind & friendly man. I used to see him when I was doing my PT in Lakeville. He always said hello even though it has been many years since my school days.
Debbie
My sincere condolences. Your father was a truly kind and wonderful man. I remember him very fondly of our growing up years. My dad loved playing golf with his old friend
Sincerely
Lorrie Wingate Carlson
Fair winds and following sea’s shipmate. See you in your next port of call.
Was dismayed to learn of Mr. Thomas’ sudden and unexpected death. The footprint he left on the LCS and Livonia community is a big one. His dedication to the students he helped on their journey in pursuit of a higher education will be remembered by those he guided along the way. Mr. Thomas’ devotion to his beloved wife is a hallmark to his character, this devotion extended to his children, grandchildren, and faith community. The friendships made will continue to be gentle reminders of a very friendly smile and an “I’m so glad to see you” expression. His warmth, his kindness, and his smile will continue to bloom even in his departing.
Such a sweet man! My sincere thoughts and prayers to all the family.
We knew Max from church and Gene enjoyed playing golf with him. Max was a kind, pleasant and gentle man. He will be missed.
Mrs. Thomas, Bonny, Debbie, Larry and family,
My sincere condolences. I have so many good memories at your home growing up. Mr. Thomas was a wonderful man. I pray you will find comfort in the memories you have.
I wish I was there for memorial service. Please know I will be there in spirit. Cork, please give everyone a hug from me.
My prayers
Lynda (Lou) Van Der Meid Robinson
Mr. Thomas was my guidance counselor, he was such a great man. When I think of LCS he is one of my fine memories! Rest In Peace, Sir.
Much respect.
JACKIE Peck
Debbie and Bonny: I have such nice memories of your dad. My thoughts and prayers are with your entire familly.
So sad to hear of his passing. When I moved back to Livonia on High St. I use to see him taking a daily walk.He was my guidance counselor in High School at Livonia. He’ll be sadly missed.
Debbie and family – how many wonderful memories growing up and being at your house – what fun we had – He was such a great & gentle soul! So many flash backs in my mind – they make me smile! Will miss him greatly! Hugs and may God Bless you!