Frank E. Thomann

Frank E. Thomann, 89, of Avon, CT, formerly of West Hartford, passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday, December 28, 2024, with his wife of 62 years, Barbara, and son Steven by his side.
Frank was born in Manhattan on May 30, 1935, and was raised in the Bronx and Mt. Vernon, NY. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1953 and served on the USS Saratoga for four years.
Originally trained as an accountant, he worked for Arthur Andersen & Co. in New York before becoming one of the original members of the Hartford office. It didn't take long to realize that Frank's personality and accounting skills were much more conducive to sales. So, in 1970, he incorporated Charter Oak Nursery Sales, and together with his wife, son Jim, and daughter Jennifer, built a strong business that operates to this day.
Frank was happiest when visiting customers all across New England and New York State. For over 54 years, Frank fostered many strong customer relationships, many of whom became close friends. He was credited with numerous awards in the nursery industry, including National Wholesale Plant Salesperson in 1996. In addition, he served in many different capacities on various boards for industry associations for many years and was widely regarded as "the nicest guy in the world!"
Frank enjoyed traveling and camping with his family (up until the kids reached a certain age), a good cigar, and a great party. Fortunately, he passed along his legendary (and secret) Bloody Mary recipe that will be enjoyed for generations to come. He was a world-wide traveler with his wife, Barbara, and had the greenest thumb around.
Frank was deeply devoted to the Catholic Church and served many years as a Eucharistic Minister, most recently as a communicant at St. Peter Claver Church in West Hartford. In his younger days, he could be seen at early morning daily Mass, and more recently at midday Mass several times each week with Barbara.
Frank will be sorely missed for his never-ending optimism, infectious smile, and easy-going manner.
Frank is survived by his wife, Barbara Greene Thomann, and his children, Michael (Maureen), Jennifer (Jim), James (Kim), Steven, and Michaela (Shawn). In addition, he was a proud grandfather to Daniel (Maureen), William (Jordan), Patrick, Meghan, Brendan, Michael, and Kevin.
All services will be held on Tuesday, January 14, at St. Peter Claver Church, 47 Pleasant Street, West Hartford, CT. Receiving hour starts at 9:00am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider donating to Frank's favorite charity, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306 (T2T.org). Online condolences may be made at www.SheehanHilbornBreen.com