Michael Langham Thomas
01 Apr 1948 - 27 Jan 2024
Michael Langham Thomas
01 Apr 1948 - 27 Jan 2024
WO1 Michael (Blue) Langham Thomas MiD
Passed away peacefully at Hawkes Bay Regional Hospital on 27 January 2024. Loving husband of Gail. Treasured dad and father-in-law of Wayne, Kiri and David Kirk.
Loved grandpa of Ryan, Lachie, Kegan and Caitlin; and Isabella and Evie. Loved brother and brother-in-law of Judy and John Ellegard and Penny Williams. Loving uncle of his nieces and nephews.
A service to celebrate Mike’s life has been held. In lieu of flowers donations to Dementia Hawkes Bay may be left at the entrance to the church or https://dementia.nz/#donate .
A tribute to Mike, messages for his family or to watch the service recording go to www.dunstalls.co.nz or posted to the Thomas Family c/o PO Box 1055, Napier, 4140.
Having known Blue as my deer stalking mentor on a year out from Sparsholt college, where he received his deer management qualification from, it was moving to watch this from the U.K.
Lovely to see so much said about his deer and wildlife management work, but also great for me to understand in more detail his contribution to the military. Of course, as mentioned continuously, Gail was also instrumental in looking after me for my time at Bridge cottage.
A trip to N Ireland sleeping in a bivvy bag on Stranraer ferry car park tarmac, culling deer in various locations, out of date ration pack biscuits and boiled sweets. the stag “incident” and the great flood were just a few of the memorable moments.
Blue, thanks for imparting your knowledge and principles on me.
Chris
Chris Rogers ( 04 Feb 2024 )
Sincere condolences to Gail, Wayne, Kiri and families. Thinking of you all at this time.
Diane x
Diane ( 02 Feb 2024 )
It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we bid farewell to a true warrior and an extraordinary man, Blue Thomas. Blue's journey was one marked by resilience, dedication, and an unwavering spirit that left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
Our paths first crossed during the intense and demanding NZSAS selection course. Blue, a former deer stalker straight from civilian life, demonstrated a tenacity that set him apart from the rest. He faced the challenges with determination, pushing himself to the limits both mentally and physically. Blue's commitment to excellence shone through, and he emerged victorious, earning the coveted place among the elite.
Tragically, fate intervened with a cruel twist, as a seemingly innocuous medical issue prevented Blue from joining the last troop bound for Vietnam. Despite this setback, Blue's resilience prevailed. Undeterred, he embarked on a new chapter, joining the ranks of 22 SAS across the seas. Little did we know that this decision would mark the beginning of a long and esteemed career that would see Blue distinguish himself in the world of special forces.
Blue's time with 22 SAS was nothing short of remarkable. He faced challenges head-on, always displaying the same courage and fortitude that defined his character from the outset. His skills, both as a warrior and a leader, were honed to perfection, earning him the respect and admiration of his comrades.
As news of Blue's recent passing reaches us, we reflect on the camaraderie forged during those demanding days of selection. Blue's absence leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his memory remains vivid in our hearts. His legacy lives on in the tales of shared hardships, laughter, and the unspoken bond forged in the crucible of the NZSAS selection course.
To Gail and the entire Thomas family, my deepest condolences. Blue's strength, courage, and love will always be remembered. May he rest in peace, his spirit forever etched in the annals of our shared history. Blue, you will be missed but never forgotten, and your legacy will continue to inspire generations of warriors who follow in your footsteps.
George Babbington "Babs" ( 01 Feb 2024 )
Rest in peace Blue, thank you for all you did both professionally and personally. Our thoughts and love to Gail, Wayne, Kiri and family!
Sue
Sue Feenstra ( 01 Feb 2024 )
Dear Gail and Family, What a truly inspirational man Blue was to us all. I remember his name from a very young age spoken around Papkura n the late 1970s and early 80s with great and genuine reverence. He was a Mike Rowe so aptly stated, a beacon to which all and any Kiwi lad could go when in Hereford. You and Blue so generously welcomed me and my NZ contingent to your beautiful cottage in Jan 1988 before we deployed to the snow. Blue's wise counsel to me as a young Troop Commander was invaluable and served me well through a long career. You feel Blue's loss deeply and my thoughts and prayers are with you. We too as an SAS family will miss him; He inspired several generations of young New Zealanders and continued to do so on his return home. Rest in Peace Blue.
Andrew Martin ( 01 Feb 2024 )
An outstanding soldier and deer stalker. I have many great memories of Bridge Cottage - numerous stalking breakfasts (thanks Gail) and an absolutely legendary house-warming party! Still talked about 40 years after the event.
RIP mate.
Chris England ( 01 Feb 2024 )
Moe Moe Ra
Scotty ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Sincere condolences Gail, our thoughts are with you and your family.
Tony and Debbie Shaw ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Blue will forever remain in our hearts. And will be dearly missed by all.
Keira Rowe ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Thank you
Wiremu Bartlett ( 31 Jan 2024 )
To the Thomas family, such a sad day to see such a highly respected SAS Soldier pass on. Blue was an exceptional person & assisted Michael Williams & I during the 50th Jubilee in GB in 1991. Please accept my humble condolences.
Staniland West ( 31 Jan 2024 )
RIP Blue, I was proud to have served with you.
Alex Gardiner ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Stand easy! Save me a beer at the Re-Org.
phil Draper ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Hi Pilgrim, take the trail to Samarkand, as we all do, I will follow again, as I did in the 70's. RIP, thought's to all the Family. Steph and Dave.
Dave Dunn ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Sincere condolences to Gail and whanau at Blue's passing. Sorry I can't be there.
Fred Schaumkel ( 31 Jan 2024 )
RIP Blue much love to whanau
Harawira Downs ( 31 Jan 2024 )
I was the mechanic during the Mahoney/Kiwi eras. I roomed with Sammie Maaka our room was on the left as you walked into the barracks, Blue's was the first on the right. I had only been in the Squadron a week or two remember coming back from dinner on a Monday night and there was Blue listening to National radio decoding the Morse Code hour that was on at about 6pm. I looked at the pages and could follow the story. Legend.. He also had an orange VW powered vehicle that looked like a forestry hut on wheels. I had built a VW Beach Buggy, we bonded over weird motor vehicles. He was one of the good guys RIP.
John Pike ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Moe mai ra e rangatiri haere haere atu ra.
Na Phil Hokianga
Phil Hokianga ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Dear Blue
I remember you most fondly from the farm at Oaksey, your infectious sense of humor, quick Witt and a fun kiwi sense of humour!
Later on I had the privilege of spending much time with you in Turangi motel lodge, when studying I Palmerston north! In particular the terrifying treks we took with the local M?ori on those wild barley broken mountain horses.
Despite being so far away here in the Uk you have been very much in my thoughts as have your loved ones Xx
Dibble Woodhouse ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Sending our condolences Blue, Gail and family.
RIP mate.
Chris Kumeroa ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Thinking of you all????Watching from North Carolina
Lulie Mercer ( 31 Jan 2024 )
My thoughts are with you
Taken too soon but what a life he had and what a wonderful family he brought to this world
Alan ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Hi Gail and family, sorry not be with you today, so sad to hear of Blues passing, besides knowing Blue in NZSAS he was a great hunting companion, we hunted the Southern Alps, Kaimanawa, many trips to Stewart Island, and several trips else where. Rest In Peace Mate.
All our love to you and your family Gail, Murray and Anna Rowe.
Murray Allan Rowe ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Thinking of you all kiri at this very hard time . RIP to your dad
Love from
All the Healy family
Jenna healy ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Thinking of you all kiri at this very hard time . RIP to your dad
Love from
All the Healy family
Jenna healy ( 31 Jan 2024 )
To Gale and her family. Our sincerest condolences. A good man, father and husband.
An excellent and well-liked Soldier in the Unit. REST IN PEACE BLUE.
bill And Echo Lillicrapp ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Lots of love and appreciation to you Blue and Gail rest in love Blue always in our hearts sorry we couldn't make it but we are with yous in thoughts and prayers ????
Ngaruihiria ( 31 Jan 2024 )
To the family and close friends of Blue, our heartfelt condolences go out to you and share your sorrow, Blue and I served together in the NZSAS and kept in contact over the many years he served in 22 SAS there was always was a Christmas card from him in the mail, and we caught up on his many trips back to NZ on exercise when I was posted to PTSU where he chose to stay with my late wife and I instead of the barracks, many years later on his return to NZ I caught up with him at his motel, unfortunately due to my overseas commitments we lost contact something I will always regret
Rest In peace Blue
From Alen and Ann Robbie
Alen Robbie ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Condolences to Gail and family A true gentleman. RIP Blue ????
Diane was Bailey-Moore ( 31 Jan 2024 )
A true gentleman. RIP Dear 'Blue
You served us well A staunch member of British Deer Society Midlands God bless ????
Diane Bailey-Greaves ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Blue was a fountain of knowledge on early New Zealand history , trade axes , and arms of the 1840s-70s period. His wealth of input will be missed . I recall several auctions where I sat with him and completely missed what I was there for because we were so engrossed in conversation. He was widely regarded , not just in New Zealand but around the world as an expert in his chosen fields . He was a welcoming and kind figure, and those who knew him speak highly of him. Deepest condolences to Gail and the family.
Aubrey Bairstow ( 31 Jan 2024 )
I'm deeply sorry I can't be with you today. My thoughts are with you in this difficult time, feeling the weight of your loss. The news of Blue's passing has filled me with profound sadness, and I regret not being there to express my condolences personally.
Blue was truly a remarkable individual. Although our encounters were infrequent, the moments we shared during his visits to the farm, through his friendship with my dad, and their shared love for deer stalking, have left an indelible mark on me. His unique character, spirited passion, and distinguished military service, which I deeply admire, continue to inspire me.
Please know my heart goes out to you in your sorrow, sharing in the grief of losing such an extraordinary person.
James Woodhouse ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Sad farewell to a great soldier and friend. Many memories from our soldiering days in 21 Troop
John (Noby) Noble ( 31 Jan 2024 )
One of the very few true characters I have met and a gentleman always welcome at our door for a cup of tea. Happy hunting Blue
Paul Faulkner ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Blue, both you and Gail were so good to me/us when I/we first arrived in the UK. Your backing and reassurance was always appreciated and you were like the home from home not just for me, but all the Kiwis. God Bless you all during this difficult time. Always in my thoughts - Roy Pigou.
William Roy Pigou ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Sending Best wishes to you Gail and family at this sad time ( .Telex Hereford)xxxx
Joyce Nicholls ( 31 Jan 2024 )
Sending condolences to Mikes family. We have many memories of Mike & his family as our neighbours of many years in Bodenham UK
A rich & full life well lived. Rest in peace now Mike.
Keith & Marian Buck ( 30 Jan 2024 )
“No one is finally dead until the ripples they cause in the world die away, until the clock wound up winds down, until the wine she made has finished its ferment, until the crop they planted is harvested. The span of someone’s life is only the core of their actual existence.” Terry Pritchett,’Reaper Man’
Blue’s ripples are strong.
John Antony Scott ( 30 Jan 2024 )
Thanks Blue, if it wasn’t for you, your families hospitality and your rugged Kiwi attitude, the NZ military community in the UK and Hereford would not have evolved into what it is today. As well as yourself, you helped nurture some true legends. I know all of those legends will miss you greatly. You have left an amazing legacy in Wayne and Kiri. May your story live forever. Who Dares Wins. RIP and thank you.
Gerard Scotty Scott ( 30 Jan 2024 )
Our thoughts are with you all as you celebrate all the precious memories.