JAGIN has long been a supporter of the Foundation and its’ mission and this year have asked us, alongside their donation, to honor a member by way of tribute who was very special and dear to the club. To all of Bob’s family and friends, we are deeply sorry for your loss.
INDIANAPOLIS — The Jaguar Association of Greater Indiana (JAGIN) is mourning the loss of Bob Thomas, a foundational member, mentor, and visionary businessman whose influence helped shape the club from its earliest days. Thomas, a well-known figure in the Indiana automotive landscape and owner of the Capitol City Ford dealership group, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of generosity and a profound passion for all things mechanical.
A Lifeline for the Early Days When JAGIN was in its infancy during the late 1990s, the club faced the significant hurdle of high operational costs—most notably the postage required to mail the monthly newsletter, the Jagin Jive. Recognizing the importance of keeping the community connected in a pre-digital era, Thomas stepped in to sponsor the club through Capitol City Ford, covering the postage expenses and ensuring the club’s survival and eventual growth.
From Harvard to the Dealership Floor Thomas’s journey to becoming a titan of the Indiana car industry was as impressive as it was unconventional. An Ivy League graduate twice over, he attended Princeton for his undergraduate studies before being identified as a “high potential” employee by Ford Motor Company. After Ford sent him to Harvard for his MBA, Thomas famously turned down the corporate fast track, preferring the hands-on nature of the dealership world over a cubicle.
In 1979, he took a gamble on a failing Lincoln-Mercury dealership in Fort Wayne for the nominal price of $1. Within three years, Thomas transformed the struggling business into one of Ford’s top-performing dealerships nationwide—a testament to his savvy and determination.
The Ultimate “Gearhead” To those who knew him, Bob was more than just a businessman; he was a true enthusiast. His vast personal collection and restoration facility were frequently opened to JAGIN members for tours, showcasing a deep love for European and American classics alike.
Beyond cars, Thomas was a skilled jet pilot and a sharp conversationalist who could speak with equal authority on the state of the global auto industry or the nuances of flight.
“He was the ultimate car guy—a gearhead, a savvy businessman, and a friendly, down-to-earth person all at once. Those of us who knew him will miss the insights and the camaraderie he brought to every event.” — Steve Jones, JAGIN Member
A Lasting Legacy Even in recent years, Thomas remained an active fixture in the community, most recently seen chatting with fellow enthusiasts at the Indiana British Car Union’s show in Zionsville this past August.
Bob Thomas is survived by his wife, Suzanne, and his family. The automotive community across Indiana feels the weight of his absence, remembering him as a man who not only built a business empire but also built the foundations of the clubs and friendships that flourish today.
In Honor of Bob Thomas
- Member: Jaguar Association of Greater Indiana
- Philanthropy: Early sponsor of the Jagin Jive newsletter
- Business: Founder of Capitol City Ford and various Indiana dealerships