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Sally Remington posted a condolence
Some times we are left speechless and sometimes that is ok. How in one little paragraph could we ever describe, define, and pay tribute to a person like Coach Thomas. Simply put- he has impacted thousands and truly made a difference. Thinking of you all often.
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John and Judy Turcotte posted a condolence
To Cheryl, Kathy and all the Thomas family,
So sorry for your loss. May God be with you.
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Randy LaWall posted a condolence
Cheryl, Gavin, Eric and Family
It is with great sadness that I learn of Rod's passing. He gave so much to so many and always with dignity and grace and a smile that lives on in those students he taught and coached and in the staff he worked with.
It is an honor to have been a colleague of his. He will be missed greatly and remembered fondly with esteem. I know no words that could lessen your suffering, only the hope that your love of one another and the love the community has for you will guide you through.
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Marcia Hepburn Adair posted a condolence
To all of Rodney's family, I was deeply saddened to hear of Rodney's passing. Having been classmates since kindergarten, you always new he was smarter and more charming than most of us. In God's light there is no darkness, may God hold you in his hands now.
Sincerely,
Marcia Hepburn Adair
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Marni posted a condolence
We are thinking of you all with heartfelt sympathy today, but with warm wishes for better and brighter tomorrows.
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Tim Sharlow posted a condolence
To the Thomas family:
Please accept my sincere condolences over your loss. It's a shock to the whole community. Rod will be greatly missed.
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Jeff Lape posted a condolence
Cheryl, Eric Gavin, Peter and Cathy:
What a profound impact Rodney has had on the Colton community and our family. I am so sorry I am unable to join you to cherish the memories and celebrate his legacy.
All my love,
Jeff Lape
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Walt and Carol Kissam posted a condolence
Dear Cheryl, Gavin, Eric and families -
We have fond memories of the years we were neighbors as well as all the years we taught together at CPCS.
The news of Rod's passing stunned us. We certainly thought he'd outlive us- he was so healthy and fit.
There is no right way to offer sympathy at such a loss as this, but we hope your memories of happy times in the past will sustain you now in your grief.
Please know that we are here if you need anything.
Sincerely, Walt and Carol (and family)
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Ellen (Ballou) Nesbitt posted a condolence
I too join the many so saddened to hear of Rod's sudden passing. I'm still in shock and can't even imagine what your family is feeling -- other than remembering all the laughter, fun and love he brought to everyone.
He was one of the first to peak my interest in science, a love I still have today, although not a field I chose.
I know he will be with you all every day, in all that you do...
My heartfelt sympathy to everyone,
Ellen (Ballou) Nesbitt
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Alicia (Hoyt) Durant posted a condolence
My deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Rodney Thomas.
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Adrienne Dake posted a condolence
Sending sincere condolences to the entire Thomas family. I've very sorry for your loss and my thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
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Erin Debski posted a condolence
My sincerest condolences in the loss of your beloved father. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
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Larry Hill posted a condolence
Cheryl and family,
I was shocked and saddened to learn of Rod's passing way before he should have. He was always a great teammate in high school and I enjoyed working with him at the park after. R.I.P. Rod and God Bless you all in this time of mourning.
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David Evans posted a condolence
Mrs. Thomas, Eric, Gavin, and Family,
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Mr. Thomas was a rock to the CPCS community as a fantastic coach and teacher. I have many fond memories from skating on your pond, playing basketball in your driveway, flag football, soccer etc, during my formative years with your family. Mr. Thomas was always out there cutting grass, shoveling snow, or cleaning the pool to make that possible.
As a teacher, he made science FUN. Even though school wasn't a favorite time of mine while growing up, I think in many ways it was my memories of having an awesome male elementary science teacher that made me become one myself.
You guys are in my thoughts and prayers through this difficult time.
Warmly,
David
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Thomas and Helen dunn posted a condolence
So sorry to hear of Mr. Thomas. Thinking of you all during these hard times.
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Thomas and Helen dunn posted a condolence
So sorry to hear of Mr. Thomas. Thinking of you all during these hard times.
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Becky & Bill Evans posted a condolence
Dear Cheryl, Eric, Gavin and family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Rod was one of the best, if not the best, teacher at CPCS that our kids had. We grieve with you. Our whole community will miss him greatly!
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Terry Hawley posted a condolence
Cheryl and Family,
I'm so sorry for the passing of Rod, my soccer coach. He was a good man who made a real difference in many, many lives. I know the entire town of Colton and surrounding areas are grieving right now. Hugs and condolences to all.
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Chad Hodkinson posted a condolence
It has been a while since I have last seen The Thomas family. When I heard of Rod's passing today it brought on a stunned feeling followed by many memories of what a great family you have. Rod was a great influence on all who were drawn to him.
Cheryl, Eric and Gavin, as well as extended family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. You are fortunate to have had the time with one of the best.
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paul williams posted a condolence
disbelief ,shock, anger, sorrow ,Regreat We are so sorry how do these things happen you never know ,God has need for a coach and he picked a great one, He was a teacher, mentor, friend, to all who know him. greatly missed would be an under statement Cheryl remember he is always with you . I will always remember soccer practice and him saying . To the fences boys. Gods grace be with your family Paul ,Penny Dan, Matt and Zach Williams
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Del Rollo posted a condolence
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this very difficult time.
Sincerely,
Del Rollo and the rest of the team at Inniskillin and Jackson-Triggs
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Ann Carvill posted a condolence
Rod was a great teacher, coach, and colleague. What I remember most is how he was held in such high regard by his students and former students. He touched many lives.
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Laurie Greene Michaud posted a condolence
Many years have passed since our graduation from CPCS in 1971. Through the years I have heard many stories about Rod's achievements and what a positive influence he had on so many people. He accomplished what many hope to achieve, a loving family and friends, a job and community he loved and in which he has left lasting memories. Thoughts and prayers are with Cheryl and the family.
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Cathy Whalen posted a condolence
I am saddened to hear of Mr. Thomas' passing. He was one of the first teachers to instill in me a love for all things science. My sincerest condolences go out to his family and friends.
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Dawn & Ken Thomas posted a condolence
Cheryl, Eric and Gavin,
We were so shocked and very saddened to hear about Rod's passing. We are praying that your faith and the love of family and friends will give you strength and comfort during this very difficult time. We are feeling very blessed that through Nazareth Soccer our families were able to meet and share many good times together. Rod was such a great person. Cherish your beautiful memories. Sending all of you many prayers, hugs and much love.
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Nancy Fisher posted a condolence
To Cheryl and her family,
My most sincere condolences to you all. May the happy memories you all share help you through this sad time. Rodney will be missed by many
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Brian Haschmann posted a condolence
Eric & Family- So very sorry to hear of your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.
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Carol Flantzer Frost posted a condolence
So sorry for your loss. We were classmates in the geology program at SUCP Potsdam. He touched many lives. Prayers being said for you and your family.
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Angie Blackwell posted a condolence
Dear Thomas family. My heart breaks for you all at the sudden passing of your father and grandfather. I've known Eric for several years and he talked frequently about how special his parents are. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I'm sure now he is in heaven watching over his wonderful family.
Much love and prayers.
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Jo Ann Roberts posted a condolence
Cheryl and family. I was very saddened by the news of Rod's passing. Way to young....and I'm very sorry. Having been on the CPCS School Board for (4) years previously, there's no doubt the impact he had on students and Staff, alike. He will be deeply missed by young and old, athletes or not, friends and acquaintances. My daughter, Abby McNamara, and I are thinking of you during this sad time.
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Shelley (Young) Rayner posted a condolence
Mrs. Thomas and boys,
May my fond memories bring a smile to your hearts. My soccer career under the guidance of Coach Thomas hold my favorite memories of CPCS. One game against Chateaugay, Mr. T said "Shelley I have a special job for you." He told me to mark a particular offensive player who was a goal scorer. When the game was over he called me his "magic marker". Positive feedback that resonates with me today. He also put me at ease more than once during parent teacher conferences when he taught my two sons. Cheryl, you got to experience them too so I'm sure you know what I mean. May you rest easy Mr. Thomas, you will be missed by many....
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Mary & Steve Hurley posted a condolence
To Cheryl, Kathy, Peter and families,
Wanted to send my sincerest condolences
for your loss. I have many great memories of Rod at CPCS in school, on the soccer, basketball and baseball fields, and at SUNY Potsdam. Reading the many condolences, it's clear how he spent a full life touching so many others. Hoping you find comfort in all the great memories you have of Rodney. My thoughts and prayers are with all.
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Cyndy Hennessy posted a condolence
To my friend Cheryl and all Rod's family members:
I am sharing here the words that my granddaughter Haylee Hennessy posted to her friends on FB. This shows how Rod truly had an impact over several generations.
"I've known Mr. Thomas my whole life as a coach and as a family friend. I always felt like Mr. Thomas was an extension of my grandpa Hennessy. He gave me the courage to believe in myself that I could continue to play soccer in college. I not only learned about soccer from him, but I learned about life. He made me want to be a better player and person; and he did. I hope he knew how much he meant to me and any others that had the privilege of knowing him.
Rest in Peace Mr. Thomas
❤
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Richard F. Kelly posted a condolence
My condolences to Cheryl and the Thomas/Ford families.
Rodney made many contributions to community, school and sports.
Was very giving of his time, energies and expertise.
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Myrna (Bonner) Scruton posted a condolence
Cheryl and family,
It has been many years, but I remember Rodney well from high school. It is not surprising that he inspired and touched so many lives. Sending prayers to you and your family.
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Meghan Wood Felser posted a condolence
Dear Mrs. Thomas, Eric, Gavin and extended family,
My thoughts are with you. Mr. Thomas was a class act and I feel privileged to have been taught, coached and mentored by him. He was a man of great integrity and a role model to generations of families. His legacy will live on because we'll share his lessons with others.
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Katie Coons posted a condolence
Dear Cheryl, Eric and Jessie, Gavin and Shelly,
My deepest condolences and to you and your family. I am deeply saddened by the loss of Rod, which I just found out this morning in China. My heart goes out to you and your family. I have so many good memories of my 5th and 6th grade teacher, and your family in my formative years. We grieve with you across the globe. I am so sorry. May your tears be with sorrow and joy as you remember and celebrate the life of a wonderful man, teacher, coach, husband, father and grandfather and friend.
With Love
Katie Evans Coons
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Phil Call posted a condolence
My deepest sympathies to the Thomas Family. I remember the first day I met Rod. We were young boys playing baseball against Parishville. I have read that he dedicated his career to education. He made a difference with his life.
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Charlene (Gilmore)Barton posted a condolence
Cheryl and family, I was so shocked to hear about Rods passing. I remember him from High school and when the girls had him as a teacher in school and also a coach for sports. He was loved and admired by all. Deepest sympathy in your loss.
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Andrew & Leah Stoe posted a condolence
Mrs. Thomas, Eric and family, Gavin and family,
I'm extremely sorry to hear the news of Mr. Thomas's death. Just like many of us, he was a man who shaped and mentored my life in such a positive way. It goes without saying that he was a huge cornerstone in our community and a man committed to making those better around him. Once again I am truly sorry for your loss and only wish that I could be there to show my support in person. Please know that me and my family are praying for you guys during this difficult time.
With deepest condolences,
Andrew, Leah, Kaydence, and Addison
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Larry Greene posted a condolence
It has been many years since Rod and I shared the same soccer field, but I remember him well. A good athlete, always helpful, and someone we younger players looked up to. It did not surprise me that Rod went on to inspire so many. My condolences to Cheryl and the kids.
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John & Jess Mahoney posted a condolence
Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family. I have fond memories of Rod. Whenever I saw him he took time to ask about my life and I could tell it was out of honest interest. He also took the time to say thanks for being a good friend and brother to his sons. He was always so genuine that I was often moved at just how good a man he was. In short conversations I often felt like he peered into my soul. He was a great role model to us all and I am thankful for having met him.
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Tammy Aldous Hall posted a condolence
Mrs. Thomas, Eric, Gavin and family;
I, as I am sure several others are, am at a loss for words and veryuch in disbelief. My thoughts and prayers surround you all during this trying time. When I heard the news, the first thing that entered my mind was to huge smile and enormous hug he gave me, thanking me for coming to watch and support the boys state championship soccer team! As we all were, he was so very proud. Find comfort in knowing that he made such an impact on so many lives that his legacy will live on for sure. Rest in peace Mr. Thomas.
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Marci O'Neil posted a condolence
Cheryl and family~
I was stunned to learn of Rod's passing. Another great person gone far too soon. Thoughts and fond memories of my days working with him at Colton keep filling my head. His sense of humor was priceless...thinking of some of the things he said and did bring a smile to my face at this sad time. Keep your memories close and he will be with you forever. Thinking of you!!!
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bonnie paige posted a condolence
My deepest sympathies to the Thomas family. I remember Rodney from high school. South colton has lost a fine citizen. Rest in peace.
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Nicole (Jackson) St Peter posted a condolence
I don't even know where to begin. This has hit me so hard. My deepest condolences to the Thomas, Gotham, and Ford families. You are in my thoughts and prayers. You were not only a great person, but a great Teacher and Coach. You will be missed dearly by all. May you RIP Mr. Thomas/Coach.
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Shawna Mereau posted a condolence
My thoughts and prayers are with the Thomas family. I have fond memories from my HS years at CPCS because of so many wonderful teachers and coaches. Mr.Thomas was definitely one of them. He was a superb teacher, an excellent soccer coach, and a constant smiling face in the halls of Colton-Pierrepont. He will be missed. I am proud to say that I was one of his students and one of his soccer players. I learned countless lessons from him in class and on the soccer field. Mr. Thomas is one of the countless mentors who made me who I am today, and for that, I thank him. He has left a lasting impression on so many.
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Sarah Penski Barrick posted a condolence
Mrs. Thomas, Gavin, and Eric:
I am very saddened to hear of Rod's passing. He was an inspiration to me. As a 5th and 6th grader, I remember working in skill-builders in his science class, and the countless hours he spent with my class out on the playground, and trails for running. He always had a stop-watch to time us for a race or personal best. I also remember him giving extra science credit when we chose to run laps around the soccer goals-- 8 times, to a mile, = 100 percent in his book. Joanne always chose to run barefoot, and I believe that she held the class record for number of miles logged. I ran through mud, on occasion.
In high school, he was a wonderful soccer coach, and taped many ankles. He really seemed to care for all of us. He not only played the best players on the field, but his less experienced, weaker players. "Beat Em to the ball, run-through, talk, Score, Let's Go! " This was his motto.... One that will never be forgotten! Thanks Mr. Thomas. You changed many lives. Thanks for being part of mine. Sorry yours was taken to soon. May you fly high with the angels. You definitely earned your wings. May God be with your family and extended family until we all meet again. You were a true saint!
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Estella DeLosh posted a condolence
so sorry for your loss prayers an thoughts are with you an your loved ones.
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Julia Rapczynski posted a condolence
My heart goes out to all of you. My family and I send our thoughts and sincere respect as Mr. Thomas was a wonderful person as well as a role model for us all. Please take care.
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Amy Buckley posted a condolence
I think I'm still in shock at this news. This man is one that I admired and loved. He made such an impact on my life! A mentor, and a friend, I never wanted to disappoint! I will miss our visits, and laughs! Mrs.Thomas, Eric, Gavin, and rest of this beautiful family. I'm so very sorry for your loss. Please know you are in my thoughts, prayers,and sending love. <3
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Krystina Gotsch posted a condolence
My thoughts and prayers are with Cheryl, Eric, Gavin, and extended family. Rod Thomas had a laugh that could fill a room with smiles. It was an honor to be coached by him, taught by him, and to call him a very close family friend. The memories will always live on in our hearta. God bless you all. Stay always strong
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Nicole wood posted a condolence
Im saddened to hear of the sudden loss of a great man. Such a role model to many of us growing up, in the classroom or on the soccer field. My thoughts and prayers are with Mrs. Thomas, Eric, and Gavin, plus all the rest of such a close knit family.
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Joshua Stone posted a condolence
Mr.Thomas you will be truly missed. You were a man I looked up too and I never wanted to disappoint. Thank you for your mentorship and your genuine care. I'm just sorry I couldn't tell you in person.
Mrs. Thomas, Gavin, and Eric I am very sorry to hear about Rod's passing. I have no doubt that the outpouring of support and encouragement from the community will speak to his legacy and how much he was respected by all who passed through his sphere of influence. May God be with you and I hope you feel His blessing through this hard time.
Josh Stone
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Robin Brockway Hurley posted a condolence
My thoughts are with you all during this time. I will never forget what a constant and comforting presence Coach T was throughout the majority of my years spent at CPCS. He was truly a role model for so many.
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Ron and Tee Johnson posted a condolence
Sending sincere condolences to all the family. He was a person who believed in doing well and what was right. Great father, teacher and mentor. May he Rest In Peace.
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Jennifer Houston posted a condolence
Mrs. Thomas and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Mr Thomas was an amazing teacher and coach, I have many memories of him. He was remarkable in every way. Thank you for sharing him with us.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your beautiful family to get through this difficult time.
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Betsy Ford Braun posted a condolence
My thoughts and prayers are with you constantly. Rod made sure I knew what I was capable of and would not let me settle. He made me a better person. A good man leaves a big void.
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