Thomas Jacob Zeitvogel

Thomas Jacob Zeitvogel

Thomas Jacob Zeitvogel completed his journey to Heaven with "anticipatory joy" while at home with his loving family by his side on Saturday, March 5, 2016, after a seven month long battle with pancreatic cancer.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Jacob Zeitvogel and Cecilia Hecht, and three of his children; Theresa Ann, Kevin Mark, and Eric Paul. He is survived by his wife of almost 57 years, Sue, and his sons; Jeffrey and Alan, three daughters-in-law; Holly, Carol, and Karen, five granddaughters, one grandson, three great-granddaughters, and 3 great-grandsons.

Tom enlisted into the United States Air Force on August 12, 1955. He completed Officer Candidate School and was commissioned as a 2nd Lt on September 22, 1961. He retired from active duty service with the rank of Lt. Col. on July 1, 1980.

As a Catholic, Tom was a 3rd Order Lay Carmelite for over 60 years, and was instrumental in establishing many Lay Carmelite communities. He wrote three formation manuals which are used in communities around the world. Tom was a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, and had been an active member of the Knights for over 50 years. He especially took pride in being the Color Corps Commander. He was also active in different church choirs, where he first met Sue. Tom was also a Lay Eucharistic Minister and Lector.

During his many years of Scouting with his four sons, he was known as "Mr. Z". He served in many capacities over the years to include Committee Chairman, Cubmaster and Scoutmaster, providing a very strong and positive influence in the lives of hundreds of young men, and their development into leaders and strong citizens. He was very proud that all of his sons attained the rank of Eagle Scout.

Travelling was a favorite activity shared by Tom and Sue, both internationally on pilgrimages, or RV-ing in their fifth wheel across the United States. They especially enjoyed the time spent camping with their new friends in the "Reno Renegades".

Visitation will be on Monday, March 14, 2016 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Ross, Burke & Knobel Funeral Home, 2155 Kietzke Lane, Reno, NV with Rosary service at 7:00 p.m.

The funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 15, 2016 at 10:30 a.m. at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 2900 N. McCarran Blvd., Sparks, NV. Burial with military honors will be at 2:00 p.m. at the Northern Nevada Veteran's Memorial Cemetery, 14 Veterans Way, Fernley, NV.

At both Tom and Sue's request, please do not wear anything black, as this is a celebration of his life and his joyous family reunion in Heaven. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity in his name.

The family would especially like to thank St. Mary's Hospice for their helpful and concerned care, and the crews from the Truckee Meadows Fire Station on East Lake Drive for always coming to our aid when needed. Heartfelt thanks to all the family and friends from around the world for their prayers and love.