Thomas “Tom” Meridith Wasinger
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Thomas “Tom” Meridith Wasinger,72, formerly of Ellis, Kansas, passed away Wednesday, March 22, 2023 of a heart attack at his home in Lawrence.
Tom was born at St. Anthony’s Hospital on October 28, 1950. He was a graduate of St. Joseph’s Military Academy, now known as Thomas More Prep-Marian in Hays. Upon graduation, Tom enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He was very proud of his service and had fond memories of serving his country.
After returning to Ellis, Tom resumed the activities he had grown to love, boating, water skiing, and fishing. Tom discovered his talent for driving and operating large trucks and worked for Arrow Trucking and later Keller Brothers, Inc. in Ellis.
In retirement he moved to Lawrence to be closer to family.
He enjoyed watching and supporting his favorite sporting teams, the K.C. Royals, the K.U. Jayhawks, and the Kansas City Chiefs. Tom also liked going to the casinos with his uncle.
He was preceded in death by his father, Meridith, a brother, Michael, and his brother-in-law, Dan Heath.
Tom is survived by his mother, Agnes (Nitzie) Rupp Wasinger of Lawrence, a sister, Mary Jo Heath, Lawrence, nephew, Kevin Heath, wife, Meagan, children, Alexandra, Owen, and Lily, of Dublin, Ireland and Tom’s niece, Elizabeth Heath of Lawrence and many extended relatives and friends.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Hays, KS. Father Curtis Carlson will be presiding. Inurnment will follow the mass at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made in Tom’s name to Thomas More Prep-Marian in Hays and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044 or Hays Memorial Chapel, 1906 Pine Street, Hays, KS 67601.
Tom was a neighbor of mine. We enjoyed talking outside and keeping up with things happening in the neighborhood. He had a kind and understanding nature. He was a good neighbor and I will miss him and our conversations. Barbara Reid
I did not know Tom, but we are only 9 days apart in age. I went to college with and was good friends with MaryKay Wasinger, also from Hays or that area. In this picture of Tom, he bears a striking resemblance to MaryKay (Mary Kay?). I wonder if anyone who reads this knows of the relationship, if any, between Tom and MaryKay. She would also be 71 or 72 now. I would love to hear about her whereabouts. Any info appreciated. Thanks. Dave Rueschhoff dave@rueschhoffs.com