March 19, 1938 – October 23, 2026
A much-beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Tom peacefully departed this world, quietly and without fanfare, the way he lived, with Jan, his life’s companion, holding his hand.
Born and raised in Seattle’s Madison Park neighborhood, Tom attended St. Therese Catholic School, Seattle Prep, Seattle University, and the University of Washington.
Orphaned at a young age, Tom was adopted when he was six years old and grew up as an only child. In time, he would become the devoted father of seven children and grandfather of eleven, creating the large family that became the center of his life.
While attending university, Tom enlisted in the Army National Guard and served for three years, followed by an additional six years in the Army Reserve.
Tom began his career in Boeing’s corporate accounting department, where he met the love of his life, Jan Willette. He later went to work for K&L Beverage Distributors, where he spent 32 years as a Teamster.
Tom and Jan were married on March 3, 1962, after beginning a life together that would span almost 65 years.
Tom was an avid reader, a man of myriad hobbies and interests, a world traveler, a sportsman and sports fan, and an outdoorsman. But above all else, he was a devoted family man.
Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Jan; their seven children, Tom Jr., Ken, Kevin (Ania), John, Stephanie (Jeff), Susan (Heraldo), and Paul; and 11 grandchildren.
A funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, November 12, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 8900 35th Ave. NE, Seattle, WA 98115. Following the Mass, family and friends are invited to a luncheon in the parish hall. An inurnment ceremony will follow at Holyrood Cemetery, 205 NE 205th St., Shoreline, WA 98155.
Tom will be greatly missed by all who were lucky enough to share in his life.