Thomas' Obituary
Thomas C. Wolgamot, 79, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Great Falls on October 7, 2022.
Tom was born on March 24, 1943, in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He was the second of four children born to Jack and Alice Wolgamot. As a young boy, Tom moved with his family from Michigan to Great Falls. After graduating from Paris Gibson Junior High School and Great Falls High School, Tom went on to attend the University of Montana, graduating in 1965 with a degree in Zoology. Tom married Bonnie Harding during his senior year in 1964. They launched a busy life, first by managing Sperry Chalet in Glacier Park during the summer of 1965. They welcomed their first son Tom, in 1967, and second son Greg in 1969.
Tom pursued a career in Dentistry, earning his DDS degree from Northwestern University in 1969, after which he served in the Army in El Paso for two years. He practiced dentistry for 44 years, retiring at the age of 70. He was an accomplished and talented dental practitioner, always loved by his patients for his caring demeanor.
Tom's wife of 30 years, Bonnie, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1982 and passed away in 1996. After losing Bonnie, Tom was fortunate to again find a true-life partner, and married Linda Obroslinski. They worked together for numerous years in Tom's dental practice, supported by many valued long term employees. Tom and Linda were able to share 25 great years of adventure and travels together.
Tom was an accomplished downhill skier and an active participant on his high school ski team. He was also an excellent water skier and passed on the love of both these sports to his kids. He was a life-long community steward in Great Falls, volunteering for many years in executive leadership positions with the Boy Scouts, American Red Cross, and Easter Seals.
Tom loved spending time with his family at their cabin on Swan Lake, which he helped build with his father and older brother, John in 1959. Tom also loved fishing, backpacking, river rafting, and sailing. He was a capable boating captain and on numerous occasions chartered sailboats in the Caribbean with friends and family.
Tom was preceded in death by his first wife, Bonnie; older brother, John; younger sister, Nancy; and his parents. Tom is survived by his devoted wife, Linda; his two sons, Tom (Christy) and Greg (Sara); stepsons, Kyle (Jessee) and Mo Obroslinski; his loving sister, Jane (Barry) Newmack; his beloved grandchildren, Bonnie, Jack, Elena, Sonia, Julia, Bailey, and Owen; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Tom thoroughly loved popcorn, peanut butter, cheeseburgers, and a well-mixed gin and tonic. His family loved him very much and his passing leaves a void in our hearts.
There will be a celebration of life at a future date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to Easter Seals or the American Red Cross. Condolences for the family may be shared online at www.SchniderFuneralHome.com.
