One of York’s last veterans of the Second World War, hero Joseph Thomas, has died aged 99.
Joseph, known to all as Joe, received France’s highest honour, the Légion d’honneur, for his role in the country’s liberation from Nazi rule.
A memorial service for Joe will be held at York Minster tomorrow (Wednesday).
“Joe served as a stoker in the Royal Navy Combined Operations, where he played a pivotal role in several critical wartime operations,” the Royal Naval Association City of Salford Branch said on Facebook.
“He took part in the Marseille landings, a diversionary operation in the south of France that supported the success of the Normandy invasion.
“He also served with great courage during Operation Shingle at Anzio, contributing to the liberation of Rome.”
In their tribute, the association said he was “a beloved family man, a proud true Salford lad, and a true hero of World War II”.
“His courage, dedication, and commitment to serving his country during one of history’s most challenging times will never be forgotten.
“Joe’s stories, wisdom, and warmth touched the lives of so many, and he represented an extraordinary generation that gave so much for the freedoms we enjoy today.”
Joe moved to York five years ago to be closer to his daughter, Patricia Lohan from Copmanthorpe, who could help care for him.
Last year he was the special guest at a service to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day at York Station.
He was also a guest at the Remembrance Service in War Memorial Gardens last November.
Joseph died on 16 December. As well as his daughter, he leaves his son-in-law Richard, three grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.
Patricia told the York Press: “He was quite unassuming and loved being with his family. He hardly had a day’s illness in his life.
“He was 99 and you expect them to go on for ever. We will miss him.
“Our children and grandchildren saw a lot of him and he loved them. He played with them and had endless patience and taught them lots of card games.”
After the war he became a lorry driver. When he retired he lived independently in Acomb until moving into residential care a few months ago.
After the Minster memorial service, a funeral will be held at Worsley, Greater Manchester, on Thursday.
