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Thomas LaViolette Obituary
Thomas L. LaViolette of Appleton passed away on Saturday, October 31, 2015 at Appleton Medical Center following an 18 month battle with bone and kidney cancer. He was born a son of the late Lee and Edna (Jordheim) LaViolette.
He graduated from Sheboygan High School and continued his education earning his Bachelor's Degree at St. Olaf College, and later earned his Master's Degree from Texas A&M. Tom also did post-graduate work at MIT.
Tom began his career in the US Air Force during college participating in the ROTC program and continued his service in the Air Force obtaining the rank of Captain.
On March 9, 1996 he was united in marriage to Dr. Elizabeth Melchert in Appleton.
He was a member of the Beja Shrine in Green Bay, and First Congregational United Church of Christ in Appleton.
Tom served as a weapons controller in the Air Force and was a project manager for AT&T prior to dedicating his time to his family as a stay at home dad.
Tom enjoyed traveling, having visited many parts of the world. He also enjoyed what nature had to offer, cooking for his family, and was a veracious reader.
Tom is survived by his wife, Dr. Elizabeth Melchert; children: Katie, Kelsey, Luke, and Logan; brothers-in-law: Ken (Rebecca) Melchert, Neenah; Dr. Randall (Lori) Melchert, Menomonee Falls; and Dr. Tim (Susan Schroeder) Melchert, Fox Point, WI. He is also survived by 11 nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Carolyn; and his mother-in-law and father-in-law: Henry and Adela Melchert.
Friends may call at First Congregational United Church of Christ, 724 E South River St, Appleton, WI on Friday, November 6, 2015 from 4 to 8 p.m. Visitation will continue at the church on Saturday, November 7, 2015 from 9 a.m. until the memorial service at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Dr. Stephen Savides officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to Luke and Logan's school, Celebration Lutheran School, in Appleton.
Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home, Seymour, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.muehlboettcher.com
Special thanks to all of the wonderful family and friends for your outpouring of support to Tom and our family during his illness.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas LaViolette
Byrl and Donna Eddy
November 3, 2015
Tom will be greatly missed, but his legacy will live on in his family and friends. Please accept our condolences and prayers for strength during this difficult time.
Marcia J. Goaley
November 3, 2015
Dear Dr. Melchert and family:
Please accept my sincere expression of sympathy at the loss of your husband and father.
I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that I will be praying for you.
Fondly,
Marcia Jean Goaley
Bruce Melchert, Cathy Nilles & family
November 2, 2015
Dear Elizabeth, Katie, Kelsey, Logan and Luke, Know you are in our thoughts and prayers. We remember Tom simply as humble, quiet, interesting and interested. Please accept our deepest sympathy. Bruce Melchert and family
November 7, 2015
On behalf of your friends at GingeRootz, please let us pass our deepest condolences on the recent passing of Mr. Tom LaViolette. May peace and comfort find you during this difficult time.
November 6, 2015
We had to say "Good Bye" to a loving husband and father this week. Tom impressed me as a true gentle-man, always easy to be and talk with, and kind to others. Each time he talked of his children his face glowed with pride & love. Great memories to keep. Sincerely, tina dieterich
Kim Rodencal
November 3, 2015
Our Love and Prayers are with all of you!
Janet Sarbaugh
November 2, 2015
You all have my deepest sympathy and am praying for you and comfort only the Lord Jesus can give. John 14 tells us of Heaven and the promise of eternal life. May the love of the Lord and your loved ones and friends be a help and encouragement to you now and in the time to come.So very sorry for your pain and loss. Janet Sarbaugh, Cynthia and Dan Moody and children, Steven and Joy Sarbaugh and children and Michelle Sarbaugh.
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