William Robert "Bert" Thomas

Poland - William Robert (Bert) Thomas, Sr., 84, formerly of Diana Drive in Poland, died Friday, October 12, in Forum Health Northside Hospital. Bert was born June 5, 1923 in Youngstown, a son of Harold and Mabel Holland Thomas. A 1942 graduate of South High School, he was a World War II Navy Veteran serving on the U.S.S. Seattle. He worked as a Bus Driver for Poland schools for over 28 years and owned and operated Thomas Sunoco in Poland for 26 years. He attended Evangel Baptist Church and was a member of Poland Lodge #766 F & AM and a 32nd degree Mason of the Valley of Youngstown Scottish Rite, and a founding member of the Bears Club. Bert was an avid card player, and enjoyed golfing. Known for his sense of humor, love of family and friends, he will be sadly missed, but lovingly remembered. Bert leaves his wife, the former Lois Dalberg, whom he married June 19, 1948; two daughters, Beth (Gary) Smith of Petersburg and Janet (Darren) Morrison of Atwater; a son, William (Carol) Thomas, Jr. of Salem; a grandson, Gabe (Tori) Garcia of San Diego, CA; a granddaughter, Mandy (Matt) Phillips of Orange Park, FL; and three great-grandsons, Turner, Parker, and Sawyer Phillips. Besides his parents, Bert was preceded in death by his brother, Skip Thomas. A memorial service will be held at the Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home, Poland on Sunday at 6:00 p.m. where family and friends may call from 4-6 p.m. prior to the service. Pastor Randy Brunko will officiate the service. The family requests that memorial contributions be made in Mr. Thomasâa�a�� name to the American Heart Association. Condolences may be sent at www.beckerobits.com .

---