Thomas Laviolette

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.