Frederick A. Thomas, age 82 of Big Rapids, passed away Thursday, April 14, 2011. He was born May 4, 1928 in Home Township of Newaygo County the son of Joseph and Alice (Curtice) Thomas. Fred married Luella M. Cook on October 18, 1947 and together they made their home in the Big Rapids area where Fred worked most of his life. He had been employed at Liberty Dairy and also enjoyed farming and working as a livestock dealer. Fred and Luella enjoyed many winters in Hudson, FL and New Port Richey, FL. Fred was an avid and accomplished deer hunter; he liked to snowmobile, bowl, camp, fish and he loved playing cards with his grandchildren. Every year Fred's family and friends enjoyed the bounties of his wonderful vegetable garden. He is survived by 5 children; Connie (Duane) Hurst of Reed City, Ken (Birnie) Thomas of Big Rapids, Kathy (Gary) Polsinelli of East Grand Rapids, LouAnn (Doug) Gregory of Stanwood, Deb (Don) Merriss of Reed City; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a brother, Robert (Virginia) Thomas of Greenville, 2 sisters, Dorothy Alice Seaman of Mackinaw City, MaryJo (Randy) VonFeldt of Stafford, TX and many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, Fred was preceded in death by 3 brothers, 3 sisters and his beloved wife of 62 years, Luella who preceded him in death on November 1, 2009. Fred has missed Luella every day since her passing and her family can take some comfort in the thought that they are now together forever. Memorial services will take place 2:00 p.m. Saturday, April 30th at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids with Pastor Mike Riegler officiating. The family will greet friends at the funeral home from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service. Memorial contributions in Fred's name may be made to Hospice of Michigan.