Groton - Herbert David Thomson, loving husband of Bette, passed away Oct. 1, 2008, at Lawrence & Memorial Hospital surrounded by his family.

He was born May 10, 1934, in Groton. He was the son of William and Helen Orkney Thomson. He attended Fitch High School, and worked at EB in Groton, retiring in 1996, after 44 consecutive years of dedicated service.

He was married to Bette Ann Wildes, of Noank, in 1955. Herb and Bette celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary March 19, 2008.

He was first and foremost a family man, devoting himself to his three sons' activities. He loved scouting, sports and the outdoors; his many interests included golf, sailing, canoeing, and especially, hiking. He completed more than 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail. He and Bette enjoyed their many cruises and travels throughout the country. He especially loved to travel and visit his six grandchildren.

He generously contributed to the Groton community throughout his life. He was an active participant with Boy Scout Troop 33. He served with the Groton Parks Board, spearheading the redesign of Eastern Point Beach Park, and the refurbishment of the Washington Park sports facilities.

He was a lifelong active member of the Groton Congregational Church, serving many roles in the church including chairman of the Board of Trustees.

He and Bette have been very active volunteers with the Child and Family Agency of Southeastern Connecticut and were this year's recipients of the “Volunteers of the Year” award of the Groton Auxiliary.

He and Bette enjoyed caring for their beautiful home and gardens together, and are past recipients of the City of Groton residential landscape and holiday decorating awards. The Red Sox and UConn Huskies were special passions.

Besides his wife, Bette, his is survived by his three sons, Brian and his fiancée, Kristine of New London, David and his wife, Prisca of Falmouth, Maine, and Robert and his wife, Laura of Jamison, Pa., and six grandchildren, Keri, Keith, Talo, Seve, Morgan and Madison.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday at the Groton Congregational Church, 162 Monument St., Groton. Interment will be private.

Donations in his memory may be directed to the Groton Congregational Church Restoration Fund or the Child and Family Agency of S.E. CT, 255 Hempstead St., New London, CT 06320.

Byles-Groton Memorial Home is in charge of arrangements.

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