Thomas Lee Wilson Obituary (2025)

On April 5, 2025, Thomas "Tommy'' Lee Wilson, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather left us peacefully at Memorial hospital after suffering a stroke. He was born in Osgood, Indiana on December 20, 1931, to Tom & Meta Wilson. The family moved to West Valley when he was two and at that time the pavement on Tieton Drive ended at Grandview (now 32nd A venue). He graduated from Highland High School where he was the starting varsity quarter back and continued onto YVC playing quarterback with Sid Morrison as his halfback. With the Korean War in process, he signed up to be a Marine like his brother Jim. Tom earned the Purple Heart Medal while fighting on the front lines in Korea. Upon returning home he joined his father in running the family apple orchard. He was instrumental with others in starting the local Grid kids football program. When the family's old wood house caught fire there was no local fire department and only one underpowered water truck in Wiley city to assist. When he heard a volunteer fire department was being formed in West Valley, he was one of the first to step forward and join. When WV Station #3 was built above Mountainview grade school he became its Zone Chief. In 1971 Tom was asked to be Chief upon the retirement of Chief Ray Wetmore and took charge of four stations for the next 24 years. He had great support from his volunteer firemen. Upon retiring he continued to run the apple orchard with the help of his family. He enjoyed golfing on many courses in Hawaii, but his favorite was Apple Tree with son Mike, son-in-law Don, and best friend Bob Price. His gentle nature was unique and he will be remembered for his gift of friendship. He is survived by his cherished wife of 62+ years Jane; children Mike of Yakima, Greg (Nancy) of Montana and Cathy (Don) Giuntoli of Yakima. Four grandchildren; Megan, Britt, Sharee & Ryan and four great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughters Nancy and Julie, brother Jim, and sister Shirley. Tom did not want a formal funeral service and requests that remembrances be sent to the Wounded Warriors. Project.org .......... Semper Fi ....... Brookside Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at: www.brooksidefuneral.com