Thomas Milfred Pablo

ST. IGNATIUS — Thomas Milfred Pablo, 83, joined his family who have gone before on August 8, 2005. Tom was born Nov. 23, 1921, in Pablo, to Alexander and Annastsia Pablo.

After spending his childhood in and around Pablo, Tom joined the Army in 1938. He was a WWII Veteran and a Pearl Harbor survivor. He served as a machine gunner throughout the Pacific. Later in the war he was chosen to join the Special Forces as an Army Ranger. Following the war, Tom was honorably discharged as a decorated war hero.

Upon return to civilian life, Tom met Vida Jane Austin. They were married in 1948 and started their family the same year. Throughout his life, Tom was an avid outdoorsman. He especially enjoyed cutting Christmas trees, hunting the Irvine and Mill Pocket as well as fishing for the elusive trout in many area creeks and streams with Mud Creek being his favorite.

He enjoyed sharing his love and knowledge of the outdoors with his children, grandchildren and even some of his great-grandchildren.

Even though Tom appeared outwardly as only a rugged individual, he had a more sensitive spirit than many had appreciated or even a chance to see. Tom expressed this gentler side of himself in poetry and songs written, then secreted away, not coming to light until he was older and wiser about the merit of his talent. Once brought to light, he touched many who read his work. Some notable fans Tom was able to meet included Shirley Jones, Florence Henderson and Milton Berle.

His poetry also earned him numerous medals and awards, including Poet of the Year honors from the International Society of Poets. This enduring imprint is a lasting legacy along with his love of family and friends.

Preceding Tom in death were Alexander (father), Annastasia (mother), Ben (brother), Lucille, Faye and Ona (sisters), Janice (daughter), BJ Gardipe (grandson), Lakota and Terje (great-grandsons) and two wives, Ruth and Lynn.

Surviving family includes Vida J. (Austin) Pablo; Lloyd (brother); children, Mildred (Tom Pierce and family), Alma Pablo and family, Donna Pablo and family, Butch Pablo and family, Mike Pablo and family, Craig (Shirley Pablo and family), Amber (Mario Bagola and family), as well as many extended family members and friends.

Funeral services with military honors were held Aug. 11 in the Longhouse in St. Ignatius. Cremation followed the services as per Tom's request.

Foster and Durgeloh Mortuary was in charge of arrangements.