MIKE THOMAS
WEDNESDAY 14TH APRIL 2010
It is with deep sadness that we have to report the peaceful passing at 8.15am this morning of Mike Thomas, a tireless worker for the Register and a very dear friend of us all.
Mike took on his duties at a time of transition for the Register. It is due to his careful positive management in building upon the firm foundations, laid during Jack Kimp’s strong period as Secretary, that the Register occupies its prominent position in the world of Commercial Vehicle Preservation.
Many members will be unaware that for several years Mike has been living with a health condition that was irreversibly fatal. Faced with this knowledge a lesser man would have withdrawn from life, sat back and waited. Mike was not cast in that mould. A stoic acceptance combined with his determined progressive and positive nature drove him on. He diverted the skills he had employed in business into everyday management of life itself. Through this he was able to exceed the estimates he had been given and continue to resist as his illness increased its attacks and became ever more severe.
Even following his step back from active Register duties last autumn he did not cease his involvement. Whenever he was able, continuing to maintain the website, keeping in contact with the Register’s officers with constructive e-mails, ever positive phone calls, and items for the Newsletter.
Finally his condition necessitated a brief period of full time care at St Joseph’s in Danbury. The staff were impressed with Mike’s resilience until the very last and were in attendance with him the morning at the time of his quiet and peaceful departure.
Mike Thomas, a strong man, at peace.
Fondly remembered.