Robert Dennis Thomas

Robert "Bob" Dennis Thomas, age 75, of Erie, passed away Saturday, March 23, 2024. He was born in Erie on June 4, 1948, son of the late Curtis Thomas and Marceline Eunice Jacobs.

Robert was a part of "Team Lightning" at the Erie Gymnastics Center with Doug and Tina Pershun, who for over 30 years, were instrumental in giving Robert the enjoyment of what he loved the most. Everyone can be assured that in Heaven, he is showing everyone the correct way of doing the trampoline and gymnastics. Robert was also a part of the Special Olympics, winning medals and ribbons for both local and State Olympics at bowling, swimming, track and field events, but his heart always came back to his trampoline and gymnastics.

Robert was a member of the Usher Club in Erie, as well as many Booster Clubs in Erie. His favorite places for food were Odis 12, IHop and Applebees, and he would be very specific in which location he preferred to go to.

Robert lived his life in devoting his time to God and would preach to the animals in the woods at Camp Eriez. He was a great advocator and supporter of religion, politics, schools, education and of everyone who had the honor of knowing him.

Robert would volunteer his time to anyone who needed his help and expert advice. He loved his landscaping he called his "business". Robert always strived to do what was right and he loved everyone around him. His zest and celebration of life was with enthusiasm, always having a joke or two ready to give. He was, as he put it a "regular comedian" and that he was always striving to keep everyone in a happy and lifting mood.

Robert was well known throughout Erie County and had many friends and adopted families that he would bring into his fold. He certainly kept everyone guessing who his real family was!

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Vergie Fay Foor, Brenda Gail Connor and Candy Marlene Thomas; and brothers, Chris Harvey, Billy Joe, William Gordon, Douglas Lewis and Curtis Willard. Survivors include his two sisters, Betty Ann "Bets" Beem of Melrose, FL and Sherry Lou Schnarrs of Harborcreek; and many nieces, nephews, great and great-great nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the Dusckas Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 2607 Buffalo Rd., on Thursday, April 4th from 2 to 4 pm and 6 pm until the time of the Funeral Service there at 7:30 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to Erie Gymnastics Center, 4725 Park-Harbor Dr., Erie, PA 16511 and Gertrude Barber International Center, 100 Barber Place, Erie, PA 16507.