Dale R. Thomas, 74, of Noble Street, passed away on Monday, August 14, 2023, in his home surrounded by his family. He was born on October 13, 1948, in Cuba the son of the late Edward and Helen (Deats) Thomas. On September 9, 1967, in Friendship, he married Susan Lewis, who survives.
Long-time resident of Belmont, Dale worked for several local companies, such as: Genesee Valley Nursery, Hetzel Motors, Adelphia Cable Company, and Preston’s Trucking. He retired from AL Blades. Outside of his employment he was heavily involved in the community, he was a lifelong member of the Belmont Fire Company, having been chief from 1984 to 1987, and president twice, from 1990 to 1994 and 2002 to 2004; He was a charter member of the Sons of the American Legion, starting on May 21, 1984, and was member of both the Belmont and Angelica branches. He was an avid hunter, enjoyed snowmobiling, watching NASCAR (especially Dale Earnhart), and watching westerns – his favorites being Gunsmoke and John Wayne. He dearly loved his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In addition to his wife of 55 years, Susan, he is survived by: his children, Becky (Dan) Hanchett, Cristy (Shannon) McKinley, Denise (Roger) Baker, and Dale Thomas Jr.; grandchildren, Danielle (Ben) Smith, Sarah (Jon) Hanchett-Morse, Cara (Larry Woodworth) Hamilton, Kaylyn (Michael) Slawson, Shaun McKinley, Lindsey (Brandon Harris) Baker, Dalton (Lauryn Force) Baker, Zachary, Mason, and Brynn Thomas; great-grandchildren, Connor, Kylie, and Daniel Smith, Lyla Hanchett, Addyson Sekoll, Huntleigh and Carter Hamilton, Lincoln and Mason Harris; siblings, Terry (Duane) Gelser, Robert “Fuzzy” (Susie) Thomas and Suzanne Thomas; as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his mother and father-in-law, Barbara and Carrel “Charlie” Lewis.
Following Dale’s wishes, there will be no planned services. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to the Angelica Conservation Club, West Avenue, Angelica, NY. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com
