Thomas Lawrence Blacik

Dear Karen, I am deeply sorry to hear this about Tom. Somehow I missed the beat on this and am sad I could not be there for the funeral to say a better goodbye. Tom was my Kempo Karate training partner (that's how we met 15 years ago). Through him we met you! Tom's (and yours) kindness and hospitality toward me has made my life that much more beautiful. Please let me or Cathy know if you need anything, or how we can be of support during this time of grief! May Tom remain forever connected to us all and may he behold the eternal beauty of creation till we meet again. Abel

I initially got to know Tom when we both were employed at Paper, Calmenson & Co in St. Paul, 1975 era. We trained and ran together. I could never beat him in a race as he was always just a little bit faster. I will always remember Tom as kind and gentle. When I began a new job at Honeyell in 1988, I hired Tom to take my photo for Honeywell to use in their new employee introduction.

Dear Karen,

It just doesn´t seem real that Tom is gone. He was such a fighter, I never really prepared myself for this day.

You two were so fortunate to find each other and have so many wonderful years together.

You were unwavering in your support for him as he went through his health decline, and he appreciated it more than you´ll ever know.

All my condolences-

Paul Straka

Karen, I am so sorry for your loss. Please know I am thinking about you and sending caring thoughts.