Thomas R. "Tom" Schlesinger's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Thomas R. Schlesinger
December 23, 1945 – September 29, 2025
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, who departed his life at the age of 79. He was a cherished father, devoted husband, loyal friend, and a man of quiet strength and unwavering integrity.
Born in Tacoma Washington, he graduated from Lincoln High School and in between his Junior and Senior year proudly joined the U.S. Navy. He served in Vietnam across three separate tours. He was stationed in Antarctica for an entire year under Operation Deep Freeze. His naval career included assignments on submarines and aircraft carriers, reflecting his versatility and dedication. He retired from the service after 26 years as a Master Chief Petty Officer. While serving he met countless lifelong friends.
Dad enjoyed every minute of his life during and after the Navy.
He never lost his sense of adventure, traveling extensively as a civilian and seeing much of the world. He especially loved the quiet beauty and the vibrant energy of Southeast Asia.
Dad opened his home to foreign students while he was at Tacoma Community College, helping them with schoolwork and life—and keeping in touch with many for years to come.
Dad found great joy in refinishing furniture, fishing, yardwork, and home improvement projects—always approaching each with a deep sense of pride in ownership. His attention to detail and unwavering commitment to quality reflected the profound pride he took in everything he undertook.
Tom was preceded in death by his mother Doris and several family members. He is lovingly survived by his wife Xuong and his children Jerry, Sean, Thu and son-in-law Lamar, Oanh, David, brother Gary, sister Vickie.
Dad leaves behind cherished friendships with Mike, Norm, Dave, and Jack, who will miss him greatly.
Dad was the kind of man who always did the right thing, helped others without being asked, and loved deeply. He treated people with kindness, gave freely, and always stood by what he believed in. He lived with a big heart, a strong sense of right and wrong, and a deep love for his family. He believed in doing good, loving hard, and leaving things better than he found them.
To everyone reading this: his life was a blessing, and his memory a treasure.
Love from the Schlesinger Family
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