Thomas Tom Stang

1935 - 2016

Thomas "Tom" Stang

Born March 12, 1935 in Seattle to Norwegian immigrant Parents Christen and Hedvig Stang. He succumbed to lung cancer on January 14, 2016.

Tom grew up in Seattle and graduated from Garfield High School in 1952. Received his business degree from the University of Washington in 1956. He served in the United States Army. He returned to the University of Washington Law School, earning his Juris Doctorate in 1962. He began his legal career as deputy prosecuting attorney under King County Prosecutor, Charles Carroll. When Tom's father became ill, he was appointed Honorary Norwegian Vice Consul. In 1967, his father passed away and Tom assumed the full responsibilities as Honorary Norwegian Consul. He continued his father's legacy and commitment as consul, providing Norwegian representation in the Pacific Northwest for 40 years.

In recognition of his outstanding services and contributions to the interest of Norway, His Majesty, the king of Norway awarded Tom "The Royal Norwegian Order of St. Olav, Knight 1st Class" in 1976. The King of Norway further bestowed the honor of "The Royal Order of Merit Commander" in 1997. Tom's family and commitment to the interest and heritage of Norway goes back to 1906 when his great uncle was appointed Honorary Norwegian Consul. Tom's contribution of 40 years meant that he and his family represented Norway in Seattle for 100 Years.

Tom is survived by his wife Nancy; sister Ingri Johnson (Richard); brother-in-law Kjell Schroder (Pat); nieces and nephews; special cousin Ann-Marie Simonson; and cousins in Norway.

Celebration of Life will be held 5:00 PM, Friday, February 12, 2016 at Sons of Norway Leif Erikson Lodge - 2245 NW 57th St, Seattle. Memorials in Tom's Honor can be made to the Leif Erikson Sons of Norway Scholarship fund and/ or to Leif Erikson Kaffestua.