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BORN
1940
DIED
2021
Thomas Gleason Obituary
April 24, 1940 - December 29, 2020
Thomas John Gleason died on December 29, 2020, at St. Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction, surrounded by his loving family.
Tom was born in Sheridan, Wyoming, on April 24, 1940. Tom enjoyed all sports and excelled in basketball and golf, eventually earning a basketball scholarship. He graduated from Carroll College in Montana and began a career as a teacher and coach in Grand Junction in 1964, at Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM) Catholic School where he met and fell in love with Margaret Baur, another teacher. Tom and his "Margie" married December 31, 1966, and raised four children.
Tom loved his family and his home. He spared no efforts to support his children and grandchildren with home projects, family events, sports, concerts and all activities, traveling often to Denver and Pennsylvania. His family will greatly miss his smile and his endless energy, good humor, sweetness, kindness, incredible organization skills, patience and mostly, his constant love.
Tom's kindness, good humor and generous spirit created instant and long-lasting friendships, from people he met in his first years in Grand Junction, to former students and their families, to the new neighbor down the block, to the clerk at the grocery store. With his friends he shared family stories, solved world problems, worked on projects big and small, discussed Notre Dame football, and most of all, laughed.
Tom taught history and social studies to thousands of students in his 36 year career. He served as head basketball coach at West Junior High (earning multiple championships) and at Central High. Tom was active in his parish, IHM, for more than 50 years, served on parish council, volunteered for numerous service activities including most recently Catholic Outreach food services, and even served several years as head groundskeeper.
He is survived by his loving wife, Marge; children, John (Marsha), Michael (Kathy), Rob (Kelly) and Kathy (Chris) Nash; grandchildren, Erica, Chris, Caitlin, Elaina, Grace, Ashlin, Emily, Joey and Jack; brother-in-law, Ernie; beloved Wyoming cousins; his groups of golf and "Dirty Dozen" poker buddies, and numerous close neighbors and friends. His brother, John, and parents, Frank and Janet, preceded him in death.
A Mass and celebration of Tom's life will be held for his family and friends in Spring at IHM.
In lieu of gifts, please make a donation to Grand Valley Catholic Outreach.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Gleason
Barbara (Schwartz) Bollinger
February 3, 2021
Tom was a classmate at Holy Name Grade School in Sheridan WY.....and at Sheridan HS. I never knew he attended Carroll, which I also did (I began the nursing program there in 1958 and after the first year was doing clinicals elsewhere) I did visit with him at our 50th HS reunion, and found him to be as friendly and kind as ever.
Paula F Burky
February 1, 2021
Marge and family I am so sorry for the loss of Tom. What a kind soul he was....many memories especially going to California on the IHM senior trip in 1980! It's been a blink of an eye....my love and support always... Paula Burky
Joanne and Charlie Pearson
January 8, 2021
How many good memories I have of dear Tom and you. You all have been such an important part of my life for as long as I can remember. The time spent at the kitchen table visiting when I was little, and then around the table again when Tom and you acted as our sponsors for our marriage. You have been there for all the happiest of times and all of the saddest of times. Tom's compassion and love has been ever-present in my life.
We love you like family and I can only imagine how big that kitchen table is getting in heaven with all of our people gathering to have a chat and watch over all of us here.
We are holding you and the family so close right now as you maneuver these uncharted waters. Such a gift is the love you all have for each other and such a gift to all of us is the love Tom always unselfishly shared.
Colleen Meyer
January 7, 2021
I had Mr. Gleason for second hour US History (class of 92). I will always remember how kind and loving he was to all of us at GJHS. He was quick with a smile and spoke to each of us like a “dad.” Thank you, Mr. Gleason! My prayers for the whole Gleason Family!
Trish nathan
January 5, 2021
My deepest sympathy to the Gleason family. Mr Gleason was such a sweet, gentle man who always brightened the room with his smile. He will be sorely missed. I hope you can all find comfort in his lovely memories. He is an angel watching down all of you Gleason’s now. With love, Trish nathan
Kevin Wanebo
January 5, 2021
Deepest condolences to the Gleason family. Many fond memories will always be cherished.
Allan Crumbaker
January 4, 2021
Hello Marge, I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Gleason's passing. I have the best memories of him as a great guy, teacher and coach. He always was so encouraging and upbeat. I hope you are surrounded by family and friends during this time. Best regards,
Allan
S. Marjorie Feuerborn
January 4, 2021
My prayers and sympathy on Tom's death. May God grant him eternal rest and peace and comfort to your family. I will have a Mass offered by the Carmelites from the Shrine of the Little Flower in Darien, Illinois. He has joined S. Jane Albert in heaven. God bless you. S. Marjorie
Bobby Bish
January 4, 2021
Marge and kids, my deepest sympathies! Tom was a great man who taught me many life lessons in class. Your families neighborhood friendship will always be remembered. Blessings and peace to all of you!
Shauna Burke Jackson
January 4, 2021
Margie,
We have been gone from Grand Junction for years and my brother just told me about this. I am so so sorry, but I am certain he is shooting some hoops with our Jesus and He says no more pain, no more sorrows.
I was just thinking of you the other day as I would always come over at this time of year and we would decorate when your momma was there. A very special memory I will never forget! In Jesus, we know that we will see him again!
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