Thomas Everett Lemons, Appleton, age 85, passed away peacefully at Thedacare Regional Medical Center-Appleton on Saturday, March 11th, 2017, surrounded by his loving children. Tom was born in Bedford, Indiana on November 11th, 1931, to Charles and Marie (Leonard) Lemons.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margaret Alice (Zuleger) Lemons; his sister Patty, and brother, Chuck.

Tom is survived by his brother Doug, Appleton; his seven children and their families: Steve (Pamela), Park City, UT; Dianne (Hans) Van Lith, Appleton; Gary (Leanne) Lemons, Appleton; Mark (Anne) Lemons, Mendon, MA; Tim (Lisa) Lemons, Appleton; Amy (Pat) McDermott, Tampa, FL; and Beth (Mike) Lewis, Bend, OR; his 22 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren.

Tom graduated from Appleton High School (West), where he was very active in sports, drama, and a member of the Badger Boys State program. His passion for golf was highlighted by a victory in the 1955 City Golf Championship. Tom's theatrical skills and gifted singing voice lured the love of his life, Margaret Zuleger, to become his wife of nearly 65 years. They were married on November 8th, 1950, and cultivated their union until her passing on August 8th, 2015.

Tom was a salesman and buyer for several Appleton cornerstone businesses, including Sears, Wichmann's Furniture, and the H.C. Prange Co. His second and most loved profession was as a youth sports coach and official on the ball fields and basketball courts of Appleton. His work as a YMCA basketball official earned him the reputation as "Dean of the finest corps of youth basketball referees ever assembled." His coaching style was cheerful and encouraging; and he was known to call a foul with a respectful smile, and a traveling call with a thoughtful explanation.

Tom was an avid reader, history buff and letter writer. His faith was ever apparent and he enjoyed the choir and appreciated singing church hymns and contemporary Christian songs, that reminded him of Gods unfailing love and forgiveness.

After retiring in 1995, Tom and Maggie traveled and lived in Germany, Hawaii, Utah, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and in 2006 settled for a longer stay in Tampa, FL. In 2015, Appleton called them home to be with additional family members and long-time cherished friends. Prior to his passing, Tom regularly played sheepshead with lifelong pals Dave Schini, Jim Westphal, Len Hanstedt, and John Gurholt.

He was described as living life to the fullest with a smile on his face, a twinkle in his eye, a kind word on his lips, and a friendly wave to all. Two of Tom's quoted sayings were "If you don't have anything good to say about someone, don't say anything;" and "Always treat others the way you would like to be treated." He was a true gentleman who consistently followed his own teachings. If you were feeling somber, he would say, "You are perfect for the skin you are in."

Tom was a son, brother, uncle, husband, father, grandfather (Pappy), great grandfather, and friend; who was true to his words. Tom (Dad) will always be loved, missed, and pleasantly remembered.

A memorial service celebrating Tom's life will be held at Appleton Alliance Church (2693 W. Grand Chute Blvd. Appleton) on Monday, March 20th at 11:00 am. Friends may gather at 9:30 a.m. for a time of greeting. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Tom's memory to be forwarded in his name to the Appleton YMCA.

Tom's family wishes to express gratitude to the staff at The Bridges of Appleton, the professional team at AMC ThedaCare, and the compassionate care of ThedaCare Hospice.