Thomas Burton Lauer

Thomas B. Lauer passed away peacefully on February 2, 2015, surrounded by loving family members including his beloved spouse of 66 years Pauline Voss Lauer. Tom was born in Dayton, Ohio on September 24, 1925, the son of John J. Lauer, Jr. and Helen Altherr Lauer. He graduated from Chaminade High School, and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout before enlisting in the Army to serve during World War II. Upon return he met and grew in love with Pauline Voss, RN, marrying in 1948. He graduated from the University of Dayton with a degree in electrical engineering and had a distinguished career at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, retiring in 1985 as a Division Chief. Thomas' primary interest in life was his family, and he was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He enjoyed taking his six children on camping trips, exploring ever-expanding horizons. Later he took Pauline on a sailing adventure from Florida to the Bahamas and eventually he joined with family members and friends to establish a family retreat in Abaco which was a highlight of their retirement years. Tom and Polly were founding members of Queen of Apostles Community and helped to cultivate a thriving community of faith. They in turn found the best of friends, enjoying lots of good times and supporting one another through challenging ones. In recent years Tom and Polly resided at St. Leonard's retirement community and were given very special care by his brother-in-law Ron Voss. Since moving to 10 Wilmington Place, they have found more friends and entered assisted-living. Tom always planned carefully for all of life's necessities. Hospice provided superb care and gracious surroundings for all of the family during the last days of his life. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Dayton. Tom is predeceased by sons John L Lauer and David T Lauer and granddaughter Betsy June Lauer Carr. He leaves to treasure his memory, his wife Pauline Voss Lauer, children Susan Lauer Silverio, Daniel J. Lauer, Kathleen C. Lauer, Dr. Michael A. Lauer, grandchildren Kevin, Timothy, Meagan, Benjamin, and Andrew Lauer, great grandchildren Jonathan, Jude, and Griffin Lauer. The family welcomes friends to visit this Thursday, February 5 at Tobias Funeral Home, Belmont Chapel, 648 Watervliet Ave. at 10:00 AM with a service at 11:00. A procession to Calvary Cemetery will follow immediately, as well as a reception at 10 Wilmington Place in the Patterson Room. Online condolences may be sent to www.tobiasfuneralhome.com