Thomas Harry Wellock

Thomas (Tom) Harry Wellock was a quiet yet strong force; a man who’s first priority was providing for his family. He approached life in a very matter-of-fact way and was firm in his convictions. A loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, Tom showed his softer side to those closest to him.

Tom was born to Thomas Sidney Wellock and Mary Jane Wellock in a small town outside of Akron, Ohio. However, he was raised in southern California with his four siblings. He had three brothers: Jim, Stanley and Charles, and one sister: Charlotte.

Sports were an important part of Tom’s life. In high school he played both baseball and football. He liked to brag about being offered a spot on the Cub’s farm team, but he was already married with a baby on the way and didn’t think that was the best way to provide for his family. However, he did instill a love for baseball (specifically Dodger baseball) in all three of his children. To provide for his family, Tom followed his wife Louise’s father and brothers into the family bottling business. His attention to detail and strong work ethic helped him to build the business, and he eventually became part owner. This success helped Tom accomplish his primary goal—providing well for his family.

Tom and Louise met on a blind date and Tom knew that he found the woman he wanted to marry. They married on August 17, 1957 at the Nativity Catholic Church in El Monte, California. Children soon followed. They were blessed with two sons, Dale and Greg, and a daughter, Paula. He was a strict, yet loving father, and only had to give “the look” for the kids to know they had disappointed him. He was a sweet and gentle grandpa to Christopher, Eloura, Madeleine, Mitchell, Elaine, Ryan, and Michael, and great-grandfather to Aubrielle and CJ.

Tom loved to spend time with Louise and their friends. When their children were young, the family would pack up the camper and spend the weekend in the desert with the dune buggy and motorcycles. Tom was an avid bowler, competing and winning tournaments well into his 60’s. These tournaments led Tom and Louise on some of their favorite vacations, including a much-reminisced trip to Ireland. However, his favorite vacation was a week-long trip to Hawaii with only Louise.

During their 60+ years of marriage, Tom and Louise had many feline friends who were all considered family members. One of Tom’s most-loved companions was his cat, Oscar. After Louise’s passing, Oscar was a source of warmth and happiness for Tom.

On November 15, 2019, Tom passed peacefully at his home. He is survived by his brother Charles, sister Charlotte, children: Dale, Greg, and Paula; grandchildren: Christopher, Elaine, Ryan, Michael, Eloura, Madeleine, and Mitchell; great-grandchildren: Aubrielle and CJ; and his dear furry friend Oscar. Services were held at St. John Neumann’s Catholic Church in Las Vegas, Nevada. Tom was laid to rest next to his beloved Louise in Palm Northwest Cemetery in Las Vegas, Nevada.