Obituary of Thomas Stephens

Thomas C. Stephens of Canandaigua passed away peacefully on May 11, 2012 . He was born on March 11, 1923 in Elmora, PA. He is survived by his wife of 66 years Shirley R. Stephens, his son: Day T. (Marlene) Stephens of Massillon, OH; his daughter Carly (Rob) Vanas of Farmington; five grandchildren D Thomas (Stephanie) Stephens, Sarah (Lance) Ullman, Eric (Lyndsay) Fuhrmann, Jenna Vanas and Michelle Vanas; five great grandchildren: Allison and Amy Stephens, John and Elizabeth Lampe, and Austin Fuhrmann; his sister-in law Donna Barend and his nephew Guy (Lorie) Barend. He was predeceased by his parents, Isabel and Walton Stephens, 4 siblings, and his grandson Ian Fuhrmann. Mr. Stephens was a member of the Civilian Conservation Corps and was a World War II US Navy veteran having served proudly aboard the USS Norman Scott (DD690) in the Pacific theatre and the occupation of Japan. He was an active member of the Sampson Navy WWII Navy Vets, and the Sampson Navy Vets Honor Guard. He was also a member of the Shortsville Lions Club, the Clifton Springs VFW and a volunteer at the Canandaigua VA hospital. Before his retirement he worked for over 40 years as the store manager for Wynar’s Appliance Parts in Rochester. After his retirement he worked at New York State Thruway in the Green Thumb program and was the caretaker of the Riverview Cemetery in Clifton Springs. Mr. Stephens was a remarkable man; he was an exceptional husband, father, grandfather and friend who served his country, his community and his fellow man throughout his life. He was a modest man who gave much and asked for little. He will be sorely missed by those who knew him and loved him. At his request, his body has been donated to the University of Rochester Medical Center. There will be no calling hours or funeral services. Interment will be at the convenience of the family. Those wishing to send condolences or share memories with the family can do so at WWW.fullerfh.com Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Ontario Yates Hospice 756 Pre-Emption Rd. Geneva NY. 14456 or Happiness House 5415 North Bloomfield Rd. Canandaigua NY 14424. Click for Map and Directions