He was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Edward F. and Helen Lauer. He graduated from Drexel University in 1979 with a degree in Civil Engineering.
In 1984, Tom met his future wife, Sherry Brain while on a Caribbean cruise. They were married in 1985. Together they raised two children, Jim and Emily.
Tom retired in May 2017 as the State’s Technical Services Manager/Chief Engineer after 30 years of dedicated service with the Oregon Department of Transportation. He was a licensed Professional Engineer.
Upon retiring, Tom’s and his family’s travels took them to Yellowstone, Canada, Europe, Mexico and the Caribbean, with many more destinations planned.
Tom was a good and generous man, a loving husband and a wonderful father and brother. He leaves behind his wife Sherry of almost 33 years, his son Jim, daughter Emily, and his brother Ed. He was preceded in death by his parents. He will be remembered and greatly loved by his family. Services will be private.