Thomas Frank Kaelin

Thomas Frank Kaelin, 65, of Surprise, AZ is in the arms of our Lord after quietly passing away the evening April 13, 2013, with his beloved wife, Mary Kaye, at his side. Born on February 14, 1948 to WWII veteran Edward Kaelin and beloved wife Dorothy in Cincinnati, OH, Tom grew up in St. Bernard parish with elder brothers Raymond and Larry (Janet). After attending Roger Bacon High School, he enrolled in and graduated from the University of Cincinnati then entered the Master’s Degree program in Education at the University of San Francisco in California, which he completed at Xavier University. Tom taught for thirty-two years, the bulk of which he spent in the Sycamore School District in Cincinnati teaching geography and American history to 7th and 8th graders. Students adored him while colleagues loved and respected him. He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Mary Kaye, and his children: Ryan (Lisa) Kaelin of Columbus, OH, Stephanie Jo Killmer of San Diego, CA, and Montana Killmer of Austin, TX. His two grandchildren, Nikalys and Kennedy Kaelin, along with all his family and countless friends will forever miss his big heart, his wide smile, and the love he had for life. Funeral Arrangements are entrusted to Surprise Funeral Care in Arizona (623-546-8002). In lieu of flowers or gifts, please make a memorial in Tom’s name to Hospice of the Valley (www.hov.org or 602-350-6992).