Thomas Frances Pollack
Thomas Frances Pollack (Purple Tom) was born in Cleveland, Ohio, Dec. 3, 1940, to Joseph and Emma Pollack.
He joined the Army in 1965 and became a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division stationed at Fort Campbell, Ky. After his service, he was employed by Ohio Bell and retired in 1994 as an Outside Plant Facility Assigner in the Engineering Department. In 1995 he moved to paradise (Florida).
He became affectionately known as “Purple Tom.” He loved fishing, cartoons, wood working, and things of great beauty. He was a member of the Coffee Klash that originally met at St. James Hardware Store and now meets at the American Legion. He was a member of the American Legion, Post 136, and Moose Lodge 1954. He played on a Monday night pool team at Diamonds in Cape Coral and also belonged to the Pine Island Boat Club. He was known for his wonderful pumpkin pies at Thanksgiving and delicious fruit cakes at Christmas which he generously distributed. He never had an unkind word to say about anyone.
He is survived by daughters, Dawn (Matt) Jeffries and Christine Klepec; and son, Thomas Klepec. Also, seven grandchildren, who affectionately know him as “Papa Tom;” and special friends, Rich and Debbie Galinovsky, and many other friends too numerous to list.
A memorial marker will be placed in the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Fla., for “Purple Tom.” A memorial service is planned for later in the year.