Thomas Lavin

 

 

Thomas Richard Lavin, 84, passed away on October 28, after an extended illness.  He was born January 18, 1932, in Duluth, MN, to Carl Herman Lavin and Mabel Caroline Olson.  He married Corinne Stevens on November 14, 1959, in Salt Lake City, UT.  Their marriage was later solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple. Together, they reared three daughters and one son.

 

Tom’s greatest loves were the Savior, his membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, his family, singing, road trips, and reading history books.  Blessed with a beautiful tenor singing voice, he shared his talents with others as he sang solos and with the ward choir.  He served in many positions in the ward and stake as well as in the Salt Lake Temple.  Tom graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in history.  He also loved his country and served as an officer in the US Navy.  One of Tom’s talents was playing the drums.  He played in the Duluth Symphony in high school and was the Head Drum Major in college.  For 37 years, Tom worked for Minnesota, Mining, and Manufacturing (3M).  He always referred to himself as a “simple sandpaper salesman,” however, he excelled in his vocation and won many awards for his acumen in selling automotive and other related products. Snow skiing and fishing were some of his hobbies; and after he retired, he spent countless hours reading and learning new things. His crisp, sharp mental intellect served him well in all of his endeavors.  He loved animals, especially dogs.

 

He is survived by his four children: Lisa (Scott) Johnson, Tamra (Ruben) Birth, Eric (Jamee) Lavin, Leslie Robinson, and his ten grandchildren, with two great-granddaughters on the way. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, his parents, and his brother, Bill.

 

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 5, 2016 at 11:00am at the Winder 5th Ward building, located at 1361 East 4000 South, SLC, UT.  A viewing will be held from 9:30am to 10:30am prior to the funeral. The family would like to thank the Intermountain Healthcare and Holladay Healthcare Center employees who assisted in his care prior to his passing. Messages to the family may be posted at: www.HolbrookMortuary.com. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Winder Fifth Ward Missionary Fund.