Eric is survived by his wife Dorothy Thomas; his sons, Graham and Jason (Lisa) and grandchildren, Maya and Maxyn. He is preceded in death by his Son Geoffrey of Spirit River, AB.
Eric was born on October 19, 1937 in Amlwch, Anglesey, North Wales to parents John William Thomas and Catherine Chard of North Wales. After graduating from Amlwch Grammar School in 1952, Eric served in the British Military for two years and upon return married Dorothy Swindells, the love of his life. Eric studied in Bangor University from 1957-1959 and completed his teaching certification at Loughborough Training College as a Physical Education Teacher in 1960. In addition to teaching in North Wales Eric and Dorothy also owned a few local pubs, one called The Bull and the other The Clock. After moving from North Wales with Dorothy and their two sons Graham and Geoffrey to Spirit River, AB in 1968, Eric began teaching Physical Education at the local High School where he became an integral part of the community through developing their athletic program and mentoring several youths. In 1972 Eric and Dorothy, along with son Graham moved to Eugene Oregon where Eric completed his Masters Degree in Physical Education at the University of Oregon. In 1974, Eric, Dorothy, Graham and newborn son Jason moved to Vancouver, BC where Eric began teaching at the Vancouver School Board. Over the next 29 years Eric worked his way from Vice Principal to Superintendent of the Vancouver School Board until his retirement in 2003. His children remember him as a patient, gentle and fair Father who encouraged them to pursue their dreams, and also was their best friend.
Eric was an accomplished Educator and Administrator who touched both children and colleagues with love and respect, fostering every life he touched to be their very best. He never spoke ill of anyone and was a consummate and dedicated professional who loved helping others and who was passionate about ensuring the Vancouver School Board was the best it could be for both its Students and Staff.
A Celebration of Life is scheduled for May 9, 2018, 2pm at the Firefighters Banquet and Conference Center (6515 Bonsor Avenue, Burnaby). In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations to be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of British Columbia in Memory of this very special Individual.
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