Tom Carpenter

Rollie Thomas Carpenter, Tom to those that knew and loved him, was born on July 28, 1955 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Patricia Ann and Robert Walter Carpenter. He passed away on May 15, 2011 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He was raised in Kansas City, Missouri until completing his education at Raytown High School.

Tom joined the United States Coast Guard in 1972 and served in Honolulu, Hawaii. His decorations include the National Defense Service medal and Expert Pistol Marksman. Tom was proud of his service to his country and served as an inspiration for his younger brothers who went on to serve in the United States Marine Corps, Army and Air Force.

Tom married Melanie S. Gartner in 1975. They lived in Houston, Texas. In August of 1976 Crystal Robin was born. Then

Katrina Lynn was born in December of 1977. They had a son Christopher Blaine in April of 1978. He passed at six weeks old. He lived in Texas for ten years then moved to Oklahoma City. He loved old cars, reading books, family cookouts and spending time camping at Arcadia Lake with family and friends. He loved children of all ages. He was well known for growling at kids to make them smile. Tom and Mel were married for 34 years. In 2005 he met Karen McCalister in Tulsa, Oklahoma. In November of 2010 they moved to Oklahoma City to be with the rest of his family where everyone all came together to help take care of him due to his failing health.

Tom was a gifted mechanic and a lifelong auto enthusiast who shared his love of automobiles with anyone that would listen. He spent many hours providing free automotive service to family members of military personnel in Iraq.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Patricia Carpenter and his beloved infant son Christopher Blaine Carpenter. Tom (PaPa) will be missed and Loved by all, God be with you. Rest in Peace.

Arrangements under the direction of Guardian Funeral Homes West Chapel, Oklahoma City, OK.