Thomas "Tom" Henry Rucinski

                                                                                                  In Loving Memory of Thomas Henry Rucinski

Thomas “Tom” Rucinski, a proud U.S. Air Force veteran, passed away, surrounded by family. He was 90 years old.

Tom dedicated over 23 years to serving his country, enlisting in the Air Force on June 28,1951, and was stationed at bases in England, where he met and married the love of his life, Marion (Steele) in 1953. He was then stationed in Colorado, Wyoming, Greenland, California, Germany, Vietnam and North Dakota, where he retired in 1974.

During his distinguished military career, Tom was awarded numerous honors, including the Air Force Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Air Force Longevity Service Award.

After retiring from the Air Force, Tom continued to serve his community, working as Head Mechanic for the Yelm and Tumwater School Districts in Washington State until his second retirement.

Tom was an avid outdoorsman who found great joy in hunting, fishing and camping. Some of his happiest days were spent on the lake with Marion by his side, enjoying quiet moments, laughter and friendly competition over who could catch the most fish! A skilled fly-tyer, Tom passed his love of fishing to his daughters, creating treasured memories on the water.

Tom also found joy in creating and crafting beautiful stained glass pieces full of color and care. He tended an impressive garden, and his dahlias and blueberries were a favorite of his family, who loved both the beauty and bounty he so lovingly cultivated.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife Marion and their three daughters, Sharon (Alan) DeLawyer, Debra (Stephen) Ballentine, Susan (Robert) and Schales. He also leaves behind grandchildren Melissa (Dan) Nashleanas, Amanda (Cody) Weber, and Daniel Schales, and great-grandchildren, Hunter, Mayson, Haleigh, Jaxon, Charlotte and Xander.

Proceeded in death by his parents, his brothers William and Anthony Rucinski and sister Joanne Richardson.

Tom will be lovingly remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. His kindness, patience, and love for life touched everyone he met. Though his absence leaves a profound emptiness, his love and lessons will live on in our hearts forever.