Thad W. Gaskin, 81, of Vero Beach died Wednesday, April 11, 2012 at his home.

Mr. Gaskin was born November 23, 1930 in Brunswick, NC. He had been a resident of Vero Beach since 1971, coming from South Carolina.

Thad served as Boilerman 1st Class aboard the USS Valley Forge in the United States Navy. He served during the Korean War.

Prior to his retirement he worked as an electrician, and did consulting work internationally. He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.

Thad was devoted to his family and focused on his work. He was a licensed pilot and enjoyed flying. In his younger years he enjoyed boating and fishing.

He was a member of 1st United Methodist Church in Vero Beach.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Joyce Blackmon Gaskin; daughter Sharon Gaskin of Vero Beach; son Eric Gaskin of Vero Beach; grandson Christopher Mays of Miami, FL; granddaughters Emily and Erica Gaskin of Vero Beach.

He was preceded in death by his parents George Sr and Pauline Gaskin and his brother George Gaskin Jr.

Memorial contributions may be made to the 1st United Methodist Church at 1750 20th Street, Vero Beach FL 32960 or VNA Hospice House at 1110 35th Lane, Vero Beach FL 32960.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00AM on Tuesday, April 17, 2012 at the 1st United Methodist Church of Vero Beach.

Arrangements are under the care of Cox Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home & Crematory. Online condolences may be sent at www.coxgiffordseawinds.com.