Mrs. Mary (Demkowitch) Thomas

Mrs. Mary (Demkowitch) Thomas, age 89, passed quietly and peacefully on Wednesday, June 15, 2016 at The Pines at Utica with her daughter and family at her side. Born in Frankfort, NY on April 16, 1927, Mary was the daughter of the late John and Mary (Kocor) Demkowitch. She received her primary education in a one-room schoolhouse on Albany Road in Frankfort, the “Old District 10” and continued with her secondary education at T.R. Proctor High School. Mary grew up on a farm with her family where she developed a strong work ethic and a love of the outdoors. She lived close to the earth. On May 14, 1949 she married Robert D. “Bob” Thomas and this was their 67th year together. During all those years, they understood each other and shared a mutual support. Mary worked for 35 years as an assembler at the General Electric Company at both the Broad Street and French Road locations. She was an introspective and very observant person. In her younger years, she enjoyed picnics at Proctor Park and socializing with friends. She appreciated the company, conversation, and conviviality that everyone brought to the table. But for Mary, a simple campfire was the best, especially when it was highlighted with coffee, cake, and gin and Wink, as it was for her and Bob for over 50 years when they camped everywhere from Piseco Lake to the St. Lawrence Seaway and Cedar Point, a favorite destination for them. Her pastimes included fishing and bowling. On top of all her duties as a working matriarch, Mary cooked delicious meals and maintained an immaculate home. In looking back on her life, she called it as she saw it, but was kind at the same time. Mary is survived by her husband, Bob; her daughter, Linda K. Colangelo; her grandchildren, Frank C. Grossi, Sarah M. Colangelo, and their families; her three great-grandchildren; and her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by her son in-law Francis A. Colangelo; sisters, Anna Perrone, Sophia Barnes, and Julia Demkowitch; and her in-laws Donald and Jennie Thomas. The family extends their gratitude for the genuine love and kindness that was shown to Mary by her grandchildren, especially during her final days. The family also appreciates the compassionate care shown to Mary by Dr. Sampson and Dr. Pachikara and their staff; and the staff of the second floor at The Pines at Utica. All services will be held privately with interment at Mt. Olivet Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mrs. Mary (Demkowitch) Thomas

April 16, 1927 - June 15, 2016