Manchester– Arthur Robert "Rob" Thomas, 52, died December 12, 2015 at Kindred Hospital in Peabody, MA. following a period of declining health.
He was born in San Antonio TX., on March 11, 1963 the son of Joe and Pauline (Jerome) Thomas.
Rob was a quadriplegic for the last twenty eight years of his life as a result of a construction site injury. His courage, fortitude and spirit were an inspiration to all that had the privilege to know him. He documented his journey in an autobiography he called “No Boundaries” wherein he wrote of his experiences, love for the outdoors, auto racing and defying the odds.
He also was an educator and lecturer to all ages about the realities of such disabilities and how, in fact, they did not impose limitations but, rather, challenges. For that he was awarded an honorary doctorate by New England College.
Family members include his mother, Pauline (Jerome) Benowitz of Springfield, VT., his step son, Richard Chezick– Gagnon of Lakewood, WA..2 grandchildren, his sister, Ruth Emery of Springfield, VT., and many close friends.
Services will take place at a later date at the convenience of the family.
J. N. Boufford & Sons Funeral Home & Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements
For more information and online guestbook please visit www.bouffordfuneralhome.com