Frederick Eugene Thomas

1946 - 2025

Frederick Eugene Thomas, born January 13, 1946, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 18, 2025, while surrounded by his family.

Gene, as he was affectionately called by many family and friends, was a veteran of the Vietnam War, and was honorably discharged as a Specialist in 1967.

Gene was employed by DOW Chemical, working as a heavy equipment operator. He also used this skill to volunteer at Habitat for Humanity, digging holes as needed for plumbing and electrical needs. In 2006, he retired and could enjoy his other passions. He had a lifelong passion for playing softball, bear and deer hunting, fishing, motorcycle riding and later in his life he developed a love of hog roasting. Gene created a small business of this for which he provided his famed pulled pork for many events.

Gene had such a great outgoing and infectious personality that made him an instant friend to everyone whom he met, and he will be missed by all.

Gene is survived by his wife Trudy Thomas and daughters Kelly Thomas, Laura Wrightsman and Leslie Wrightsman. He is also survived by his brothers Warren (Susan) Thomas of Virginia, Gregory (Jeannie) Thomas of Baldwin and Ronald (Darlene) Thomas of Kentwood. Sisters Vivian Thomas, Diane (Ronald) Jimmerson and Denise Starkey, all of Grand Rapids and 5 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren as well as a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives who all loved him very much. Gene was also very fond of granddaughter Taya who was his right hand with hog roasting and great-granddaughter RyLynn who was 'Papa's' helper around the house.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and RoseAanna Thomas, siblings Alfred, Richard, Anthony, Sharon, Sandra, Phillip and Vendetta.

Trudy extends her heartfelt gratitude to their dear friend, Steve Pruitt for all he has done during this difficult time.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 4, 2025, from 5p.m.-7 p.m. at Grace Funeral Home.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025, at noon at Grace Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Gene will be laid to rest at Maple Grove Cemetery in Free Soil, where military honors will be rendered at 2:30 p.m. at the cemetery.

Fred was loved beyond measure and will be missed beyond words.

Arrangements were entrusted to Grace Funeral Home and Cremation Services (formerly Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington), www.GraceCremations.com.