Frank A. Thomas III

Frank Arden Thomas III, of Lansing, Michigan, loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on July 31 after a brief battle with cancer. Frank was born in Lansing on January 14, 1932, to Ione (Converse) and Frank Arden Thomas II. Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Ione and Frank; brother, Edward; sister and brother-in-law, Patricia and Ralph Anderson; and daughter-in-law, Cindy Thomas. Frank had many career interests in his lifetime, including realtor, builder and salesman. He was an accomplished pilot of planes and helicopters, and that love of flying led him to providing many charters to Beaver Island. Frank and his wife, Maurine, loved to fly to many different locations across the country to spend time with other pilots and enjoy air shows. Frank had a passion for airplanes, helicopters, snowmobiles, motorcycles, military history and spending time with family and friends. Frank and Maurine moved to Florida in the mid-1980s. They lived in Florida for almost 30 years before moving to Tennessee and then back to Michigan two years ago to be closer to family. Frank and Maurine left behind many wonderful friends in Florida and Tennessee. They enjoyed many adventures together, including whitewater rafting in their 80s. Frank is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Mary Maurine; children, Linda (John) Krieger, Debra (Russ) Sanches, Frank Arden IV, Jan (Robert) Niles, Denni Denniston Kraft, William (Janice Brigham) Thomas, Ann (Joseph) Peer; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren; and beloved nieces and nephews. The family would like to extend special thanks to Great Lakes Caring Hospice for their loving care of Frank. We would also like to thank his very special neighbors, who have gone above and beyond looking out for Mom and Dad and taking care of their every need, including yard work, running errands, providing meals and being there for all of us. We couldn't have managed without you. The family will receive visitors from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, August 4 at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 205 E. Washington, DeWitt. A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 5 at the chapel. Reverend Dr. Rodney Kalajainen will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Great Lakes Caring Hospice, 900 Cooper Street, Jackson, MI 49202-9903. The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes DeWitt Chapel. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.grdewitt.com