On Tuesday, July 30th, Thomas Dean Tice passed away surrounded by his family. Each hand was held as he quietly and comfortably left this life for the next. There is no way to write here what he meant to his loved ones, but it is certain that none of us would be the people we are without the love of our “papa” “old man” or “dad”.
Tom was born in Ames, Iowa, on May 29th, 1945, the son of Harold and Pearl Tice. The youngest of 4, he was a rambunctious youth who would graduate from Ames High School. He later graduated from Iowa State University where he majored in history. He loved his Cyclones and thanked them for building his strong character through years of difficult fandom….it takes a real fan to show up for a football team that consistently went 2-8.
He served 6 years in the Army and proudly fought for his country in Vietnam. Upon his return to Iowa, Tom married and started a family. He was always there for his sons, Andy and Chance, going above and beyond in raising them to pursue their interests with zeal. He spent over 30 years working for Iowa Dental Supply as a sales representative where he made a network of colleagues and customers into a circle of friends.
In addition to his professional achievements, Tom was an avid gardener who above all loved spending time with his grandchildren. He insisted on being active in their lives and cherished the opportunity to drive them to and from school and activities. Whether it was bringing donuts every Sunday morning or going to a sporting event or concert there was never a question about how much he loved his family.
Tom is survived by his children, Andrew Tice and his wife Mary, Chandler Tice and his beloved grandchildren, Olivia, Quinn, Mia, William, Oliver, Caroline, AJ and Josephine. He is also remembered fondly by his siblings, Dennis Tice (Shirley Tice) and Madeline Dowell as well as his oldest brother Bob who preceded him in death.
Tom’s entertaining and hilarious nature will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of playfulness and love will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of calling him a friend, “papa”, “dad” or “old man”.
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