Obituary of Godfrey (Geoff) Edward THOMAS

February 4, 1925 – Bettws, Wales
June 7, 2020 – Calgary, Alberta

Godfrey (Geoff) E. Thomas passed away peacefully at the Bow Crest Care Centre in Calgary at the age of 95 years. 

Geoff was born in the village of Bettws, in the coal valleys of Southern Wales, UK. Despite modest upbringings Geoff and his three brothers all attended universities on scholarships. Geoff was formally awarded his Master’s of Science from Cardiff University in 1951, the same year he immigrated to Canada. Geoff loved to sing and from a young age, sang solos initially as a boy soprano in churches throughout his region and later as a tenor in churches, and at home for guests and family.  He always attributed his best career move to an on demand performance by a prospective employer “who hired him on the spot after hearing him sing”. His passion for singing never left him; even in his last few days he sang what would be his last song, Oh Canada. Geoff soon moved to Regina, SK, to work as a petroleum geologist.  He joined a local United Church and became a member of St David’s (Welsh) Society.  He was then introduced to Barbara Huck, a gifted piano accompanist. It was love at first sight, music at second sight, and they married in 1952. Their daughter Gail was born in 1954, and in 1955 the family moved to Calgary. His son, David, was born in 1957. Geoff worked for many years as an independent geologist, and was responsible for bringing many exploration companies to onshore UK in the heady days of the North Sea oil discoveries.  Later, managing the Canadian operations of a Denver based company gave him the opportunity to combine base business with his passion for geology. Geoff, in his heart of hearts was always an explorationist. One could say he never retired from geology as he always had a gold play to dream of, a rock to polish or an oil well to be drilled. Geoff loved his family and was always there to help.  His granddaughters and great-granddaughter were very special to him and he was a very keen supporter of their adventures. 

Geoff is survived by his son David Thomas (Lori), son-in-law Harry Bryant, three granddaughters: Dr. Lindsey Thomas (Jim Sikyea), Robyn Thomas and Brynlee Thomas; and great-granddaughter Olivia. Geoff was pre-deceased by his wife Barbara in 2019 and daughter Gail Thomas in 2020.  

The Family is very grateful to the wonderful staff at the Bow Crest Care Centre and to his caring doctor, Dr McKenna for their extraordinary care of Geoff.  

Relatives, care givers and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life at McInnis & Holloway (Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre St N. Calgary, AB) on Saturday, August 8, 2020 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Geoff’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

In living memory of Godfrey (Geoff) E Thomas, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH, CALGARY, AB, T2E 2V6,   Telephone: 403-243-8200.