CW5 George Robert Thomas

CW 5 George Robert Thomas, 96, of Scranton died Sunday at Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Dunmore.

Born in Dupont, George was born on August 26, 1924 to the late Assad and Louise Salem Thomas.

Upon moving to Scranton in his younger years, he graduated from Scranton Technical High School in 1942 with honors.  George’s desire to learn led him to the University of Chicago where he graduated in 1945 with a degree in Social Studies.

Upon graduation, George enlisted in the U.S. Army.  Before leaving for WWII in the Pacific Theatre, he married the love of his life, Delores “Dee” Algaway, who died in 1971.  George was never the same.

During WWII, besides being a combat infantry solider, his duties included being a Chinese Interpreter.  After WWII, he then went on to serve during the Korean Conflict.

George served 40+ years with the active US Army and PA National Guard, retiring with the rank of CW4, later attaining CW5 in 1984.  His duties with the PA National Guard included Logistical Officer, Administrative Assistant, Food Service Officer, and Ammunition Officer.  George was awarded several medals and ribbons which included the Combat Infantryman Badge, Army Meritorious Medal, Army Commendation Medal, American Campaign, Asiatic-Pacific Camp with 4 Stars, World War II Victory Medal, Army of Occupation (Germany), National Defense Service Medal.

During George’s life, and more retirement, he volunteered for many causes.  He was currently Treasurer of the Armed Forces Committee of Scranton, and Vice-Chairman of VFW Post 6528.  His membership in the 28th Division Heritage Association, and the former Scranton City Guard Museum Committee were special to him.  For several years, George was Chairman of the Bread Basket of NEPA at the West Scranton Branch.

George was a member of St. Ann Maronite Catholic Church, West Scranton.

An avid gardener, nothing gave him greater pleasure than sharing his bounty, the roses of his garden; and especially his tomatoes.  Many enjoyed George’s skills at Lebanese cooking.  His kibbie, stuffed squash, and taboulleah were specialties.

His family wishes to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of the Scared Heart, Dunmore for all the care and compassion they provided to George.

He is survived by sons, Retired Lt. Glenn, of the Scranton Police Department and wife, Barbara, Scranton; and Barry, Pompano Beach, FL; his companion of 35 years, Joan Gentile, who brought him many years of friendship and joy; as well as countless nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and cousins.

He was also preceded in death by his son, George Jr., whose death George always struggled with, who died shortly after birth; his brothers, Bill, Mike, Charlie, and Albert Thomas and sisters, Rose Kulick and Alice Koury; and a cousin, Victoria, who was like a sister to all of his siblings.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Ann Maronite Church, 1320 Price St, Scranton, on Friday at 11AM.  The mass will be celebrated by Rev. Antoun Youssef, Pastor.  All those attending are kindly asked to follow current safety guidelines by observing social distancing and wearing a mask.

Interment will be held at Sacred Heart Cemetery, West Scranton.

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