Gerry Thomas

Gerry Thomas (1922 - ) is an American salesman who is traditionally credited with inventing the TV dinner while working for Swanson in 1954, even though he did not own a television himself. He used his experience with mess kits from his military service to develop a 3 compartment design, which was similar to the in-flight meal trays used by the airlines of the day. He was an avid pilot, and in 1983 became the first civilian to break the bonds of gravity when he was invited to ride the Columbia Space Shuttle. Swanson sold 10 million dinners in the first year of production. He was uncomfortable with being called the "Father" of the TV dinner, however since in his mind he just built upon on existing ideas. Thomas became a sales manager after Swanson was acquired by Campbell Soup in 1955. He retired in 1970 after suffering a heart attack. Following his retirement he did consultancy and directed an art gallery. Ironically, Thomas is a gourmet cook and his wife Susan is quoted as saying, "He never ate the TV dinners".

Related Topics:
1922 - American - TV dinner - Swanson - 1954 - Television - Mess kit - Campbell Soup - 1955 - 1970 - Heart attack - Consultancy - Art gallery

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