Veteran and dedicated engineer
WAKEFIELD — Donald O. Thomas, long-time resident of Wakefield passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, October 7 at the age of 89.
Born in Melrose, Don was one of two children of the late Nelson and Dorothy (Myrick) Thomas. He graduated from Melrose High School where he played football and ran track and Northeastern University with an Engineering Degree. He also proudly served in the United States Army Reserves and Massachusetts State Guard.
Don who was known for his kindness and patience, lived a life filled with love and devotion to his family especially his beloved wife Jan whom he married in 1961. Their journey took them from Melrose to Wakefield where they planted roots and raised their family.
A man of many passions, Don found joy in the simple pleasures of life. A dedicated engineer and purchasing agent, he spent 36 years at MIT Lincoln Labs where he made significant contributions. As a railroad enthusiast, he devoted time to volunteering for various railroads and model clubs leaving a lasting legacy in the local community. He was a proud volunteer for the WW&F Railway in Alna, ME, the Klaxon Club, volunteered for the National Park Service driving trolleys and helped rebuild the S/V Truant in Gloucester. He never lost his inner child and really enjoyed operating and maintaining trains, cars, boats and models.
His commitment extended beyond hobbies. A gentleman of deep faith, he was a long time and active member of the First United Methodist Church in Melrose where he served as a Senior Youth Leader for many years. In his moments of relaxation, Don loved taking drives on backroads, playing softball at Pine Banks and cheering on his beloved children, grandchildren and Boston sports teams or spending time in Wiscasset and Wolfeboro. His life was a testament to the joy found in simple pleasures and the importance of family bonds.
Don was the beloved husband of Janien “Jan” E. (Benson) Thomas with whom he shared 63 years of marriage. Devoted father of Sandy E. Companeschi and her husband Pat of Wilmington; Barbara L. Thomas of Wolfeboro, NH; and Kenneth O. Thomas of Wakefield. Dear brother of the late Jeanette Van Steensburg and her surviving husband Edward. Cherished grandfather of Patrick and his partner Sam; Mathew and his partner Dee; Andrew and his partner Juvi; Mark and his wife Ashlyn; Zackery and John; and his great grandchildren Skylar and Myles.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Friday, October 11 from 10 to 11 a.m. where his funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. Interment at Forest Glade Cemetery, Wakefield. For online tribute, please visit robinsonfuneralhome.com.
