Photo courtesy of Tempe Mortuary - Tempe
Tom was a friend of ASU gymnastics to the end. He announced many of our home meets and helped as a member of our Team's Board of Directors for many years after it was cut from the University. He was also a great mentor to me in my studies as I studied under him in the Exercise Science Department at ASU while earning my Masters. Always had a good word of encouragement. Will never forget this man!
Scott Barclay
February 26, 2015 | Chandler, AZ
"During all their distress it was distressing to him...In his love and compassion...he lifted them up and carried them all the days of old." (Isaiah 63:9) Please know that our Heavenly Father knows the pain you feel and promises to carry you through this distressing time.
E.W, ILLINOIS
February 24, 2015
I met Tom with his beautiful and courageous wife Ann when she founded a support group for people and caregivers of those with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). They were so devoted to each other. My husband had recently died of the same thing so I was able to answer questions and give ideas. She took care of him all the way through-a magnificent team. May your heart dance because you did a great job and made Tom happy and able to move on. Blessings and prayers for you both.
Anni Beach
February 22, 2015 | Chandler
Thomas Leroy Dezelsky EdD, 80, passed away February 4, 2015, at his home in Tempe, Arizona, after a long and courageous battle with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). Tom was born in Saginaw, MI, He attended Central Michigan University, University of Michigan, and University of Indiana for his EdD. In 1968 his career as educator brought him to Arizona State University's Department of Exercise and Wellness where he taught for 30 years. During that 30 years Tom was a member of the National and Division Board of Directors of the American Cancer Society where he conducted numerous workshops internationally on Board Development and Minority Recruitment, receiving many awards for his service. He leaves behind his children Tam (Walker), Cory, Brook, Glyn Dean (Rolf), Lea Blades (Chris Phagan), nine grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Tom married Ann Ludwig in 1985 and his expanded family added Scot Ludwig (Christina), Linda Jarmer (Matt), Lauren Rasley (deceased), twelve grandchildren and one great grandchild. He also leaves brother Don (Mary); sisters Janice Jaynes and Julie (Bob) Fhuere. Tom was an avid fly fisherman who tied his own flies, enjoyed camping, traveling internationally, playing his guitar and singing, and participating in assorted sports. Tom rode and cared for his horses, Barcledean and Sunny, and drove his four wheel drive on many off road desert trips. And he did his daily crossword in ink. He served as the commentary voice of ASU gymnastics for many years and contributed management and technical services as well as creative insight for A Ludwig Dance Theatre from 1984. He was a strong yet gentle man of many interests and will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him well; we are collectively thankful the conditions surrounding PSP are no longer a part of his existence. His family is also thankful for the special care during Tom's prolonged illness: Bob Williams, Roberta Townley, and Thomas May, for many months; plus Allan Wade and Holly Mires during the final days. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to research and education about Progressive Supranuclear Palsy at CurePSP, 30 E Padonia Road, Suite 201, Timonium, MD 21093 OR online at www.CurePSP.org. A celebration of Tom 's life is planned in April at Tempe Mortuary.
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