Lothar Thomas

Thomas, Lothar Lothar Thomas, age 73, of Apopka died at home on Tuesday, April 15, 2014 from pancreatic cancer. Born in Altenburg, Germany he was the son of the late Herbert and Elsa (Kretzschmar) Thomas. He spent his early childhood in Germany and immigrated to the U.S. with his family after the war. His family settled in Holyoke, MA where he attended school, was involved in a number of sports, such as baseball, soccer, and hockey. In his youth, hockey was his favorite sport and he was an avid fan of Bobby Orr and the Boston Bruins. When Lothar came to the U.S. and started 3rd grade at 10 years old he could not speak a word of English. Not only did he gain a mastery and command over the English language, but, ironically, he later attained a successful career in journalism. Lothar started working for The Wall Street Journal (Dow Jones Inc.) when he was 19 years old as a copyboy. He held several positions at the newspaper and through his hard work ethic and dedication to a career he loved he eventually became the News Production Editor. Lothar traveled to Europe, California, and New York many times for his job. In 1982, he moved his family from Massachusetts to Florida to oversee the news department at the Orlando Division. He worked a total of 41 years for The Wall Street Journal. After retiring in 2000 he spent most of his time enjoying his passion and love for the game of golf playing several times a week. Lothar also had a great fascination and interest in horse racing and owned a few race horses throughout his years. He loved to travel with his family and especially loved to visit the bright lights and allure of Las Vegas a few times a year. His most proud moments and joys in life were centered on his family. He adored and dedicated his life to his children and especially loved spending time with his six grandchildren. He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years Carolyn (Foley) Thomas, and their four loving children and each of their spouses: Tracey Perry (Gregory) of Apopka, Shari Lusito (Michael) of Orlando, Michael Thomas (Tina) of Lexington, KY, and Jennifer Ulrich (Paul) of Baltimore, MD; two siblings: Harry and Guenter Thomas; mother-in-law: Dorothy Foley; and grandchildren: Abrianna and Alexander Lusito, Kaley Tiller and Keegan Thomas, Lauren and Ian Ulrich. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at First United Methodist Church, 201 S. Park Ave, Apopka, FL 32703 on Tuesday April 22, 2014 at 11am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Comforter and Florida Hospital Cancer Institute. Arrangements have been entrusted to Steverson, Hamlin & Hilbish Funerals and Cremations, 226 E. Burleigh Blvd., Tavares, FL 32778, (352)343-4444. Online condolences may be left at www.steversonhamlinhilbish.com