Les Thomas

SCARBOROUGH — Les Thomas, 56, died Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2016 from complications following heart surgery.

Les was born in Scarborough on May 13, 1960. He attended Scarborough schools and was well known throughout the state as a friend and an accomplished entrepreneur.

Les was the sole owner of Cash Energy. As a young man, he entered the oil business working for Dead River Company. He subsequently left his employment and, armed with fierce determination and a superior intellect, Les formed Thomas Oil Company, a company he later sold to Dead River Company. During the next several years, Les bought and developed self-storage facilities and commercial properties in southern Maine. He re-entered the oil business as a founder of Cash Energy, headquartered in Scarborough, which now provides services in York, Cumberland, Androscoggin, Kennebec and Penobscot counties. Throughout his career, Les showed remarkable insight, a keen understanding of business and a highly principled dedication to one’s word.

Whether it was a formal event or a family gathering, Les possessed a charm and charisma that warmly attracted those around him. His self-effacing manner could make the tensest situations relaxed. He will also be remembered for his quiet generosity toward the many people and charitable causes he so selflessly assisted.

Among his many and varied interests, Les was an avid car collector specializing in Mustangs and restoring many to their original condition. He enjoyed stock car racing from dirt tracks to NASCAR and raced his own car at Beech Ridge Speedway.

He was much loved by his family and friends and will be greatly missed by all.

Les was predeceased by his father, Duane 0. Thomas.

He is survived by his mother, Alta L. Thomas, of Saco; his fianceé, Melanie Pearson and her son; his daughter, Ashten Hopkins, of Biddeford; son, Christopher Thomas of Westbrook; his brothers, Paul of Saco and Duane of Florida; his sisters, Kathy Jewett of Hampden and Dixie Conley of Casco.

A private memorial service is planned.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to the Maine Community Foundation, Les Thomas Trust.