ANGELICA – James Howard Thomson, 75, passed away at home on Saturday (November 25, 2023) following a lengthy battle with ALS.
Mr. Thomson was born in Kenmore on January 18, 1948 to Myron and Frances (Cross) Thomson. He graduated from Kenmore West High School in 1965 and shortly thereafter enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served from 1965 to 1969. On June 12, 1985 at St. Luke’s Presbyterian Church in Kenmore, Jim married Ann Marie Santalucia, who survives.
Jim worked 35 years at General Motors in Tonawanda, retiring in 2009 from his vocation as a tool setter. During a short hiatus from GM, he worked at Ray Weil Chevrolet, where he was fortunate enough to meet the lovely bookkeeper, Ann, whom he married. After three years working at Ray Weil and having won Ann’s heart, Jim returned to General Motors.
In addition to his wife of 38 years, Jim is survived by six children, Jason (JoAnne) Besant of Lockport, Adam (Traci) Besant of Orlando, Fla., Michelle Clowers of Tonawanda, Richard (Lisa) Besant of Charlestown, W.Va., Shaun (Kristen) Thomson of Franklinville and Brian (Jamie) Thomson also of Franklinville; twelve grandchildren, Courteney Clowers, Jason Clowers, Brianna Besant, Noah Besant, Matthew Besant, Brayden Besant, Gabriella Besant, Emma Thomson, Lyla Thomson, Chase Mazuryk, Emerson Batchelder, and Isabella Thomson; and one great grandson, Grayson Noel.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, Bill Thomson and Roger Thomson.
Jim was a member of the American Legion Herbert W. DeLong Post 808 in Belmont and the VFW Pvt. Leonard Post Jr., Post 6251 in Cheektowaga.
Jim was a superb example of the Marine’s motto, Semper Fi. Not only was he courageous and a fighter, he was selfless and compassionate. He had an interesting personality and was fair minded. He was very accepting of everyone. Jim proved himself to be a great husband and a wonderful father.
Jim loved spending time with Ann, especially working at home on the landscaping. They also enjoyed participating together in the local bowling league in their younger years.
Jim had a great time playing street hockey with the neighborhood kids. He was also an avid golfer. He was the mastermind of the famous “James H. Thomson Open” enjoyed by his entire family.
Jim was an enthusiastic Buffalo Bills fan and was thrilled to attend Superbowl XXV – Bills vs. Giants. Bills games were family events as Jim held three season tickets each year – one for himself, one for Ann, and one for his children to take turns going for a special day out. After football, he loved following the Buffalo Sabres during hockey season.
Sometimes the best memories are summed up with one word – hugs. Jim loved his family deeply and demonstrated it by sharing many hugs with them.
A memorial service with full military honors will be held on Wednesday (November 29) at 1:00 at Genesis Bible Church in Scio, with Pastor Marc Chamberlain officiating.
Memorial contributions in Jim’s name may be made to The ALS Association Upstate New York Chapter,135 Old Cove Road, Suite 213 – Liverpool, NY 13090. © 2023 Baker-Swan Funeral Home.
My very deepest sympathy to all of Jim’s family and friends. It is very difficult to put into words how saddened I feel. Jim will always be in my heart.
Ann….he was so very blessed to have you as his wife. I know your love for him is immense.
To our daughter Michelle, he was the perfect father and her love for him runs deep within her.
You all were truly blessed to have each other.
Rest in Peace Jim. Fly high, your suffering is over.