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Thomas (Tom) Matthew Apligian

September 29, 1948 –
 July 11, 2022

Obituary

Thomas (Tom) Matthew Apligian passed away on Monday, July 11, 2022, surrounded by his loving family, in his home, after 13 years on dialysis. He was 73.

Tom was born on September 29, 1948, in Pasadena California.  He grew up in an Armenian household, receiving a diploma from Saint John’s Armenian Church, and graduating from Fordson High School.  Subsequently, he trained on a Navy P3, realizing his dream of becoming a pilot.  With his talent recognized, Naval officers flown in by the Blue Angels encouraged him to fly the F14 Tomcat.  He instead went on to pursue a psychology degree from Eastern Michigan after marrying his first wife, Beverly Gunther, and fathering their three children, Carolynn, Elizabeth and Tommy.  It was also in Detroit when he first started practicing real estate, undoubtedly skills he learned from his father.

In 1980, he married Sharon Dolecki, and moved to Texas where he resided for the remainder of his life.  His family grew by two more daughters, Hailey and Anne Marie, while building a highly successful real estate career over the course of 30+ years.

Over the years he maintained his love of flying, taking opportunities to use the piloting skills he proudly acquired and enjoyed.  He enthusiastically shared his love of fishing and boating, creating countless memories that continue to be passed on to his grandchildren.

A highly passionate and determined man, proud of his Armenian heritage, he continued to support the Armenian Christian Church, enjoyed cooking delicious Armenian cuisine, and shared his knowledge of the Armenian heritage with his children and all those interested.

Tom consistently defied the odds, making his own path, determining his own outcomes, and taking control of his own destiny.  His fierce determination and strong will to live prolonged his life by many years.

He is survived by his wife, Meshell Johnson, his 5 loving children and their spouses, Carolynn and David Dolan, Elizabeth and Chad Fairey, Tommy and Jacki Apligian, Hailey and Jaime Meraz and Annemarie and Brian McKay,10 grandchildren, sister Janice Hedke, and brothers Edward Apligian and Charles Apligian.

The celebration of life service was held Friday, July 15, 2022 at the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ Monastery, 17671 Co Rd 4057, Kemp, Texas 75143.

In lieu of flowers, Tom requested donations to be made to the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ Monastery.

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Testimonials

Liza B.Dallas, TX
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"I highly recommend this funeral home and crematorium; when I had to make and pay for my brother’s arrangements across state lines, Evelyn Montonya, in particular, demonstrated both compassion and professionalism and made a very sad and difficult situation much easier. Many thanks."
Gloria M.Dallas, TX
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"The unexpected passing of my husband was a very difficult and trying time for my boys and I. I had the good fortune of having Abel walk us thru this process. Working with him was such a weight off my shoulders. He was professional, so polite and helpful. The service was beautiful – never did I feel rushed or like just another customer. They gave me the time I needed and I appreciate that so much! Also Mr. Brooks took special care of my husband as he is a fellow mason. I would highly recommend working with Abel and North Dallas Funeral Home."
Lance G.Dallas, TX
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"Everyone at North Dallas Funeral Home was very professional, kind, and caring, in all steps of the process from the first phone call to the service held at their location. They help to make the process as easy and comforting in my opinion as to be expected, I would recommend their service to anyone. Thank You to everyone who helped me and my family. Sincerely,"
Jason H.Dallas, TX
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"As soon as the call was made to Mr. Wayne Baxter all of my brothers final needs were taken care of. They walked me through what to expect the timeline and even dealt with the cemetery and the grave diggers. I was a hot mess due to my brothers sudden and unexpected passing. The experience was seamless and made it easy for my brother’s friends and family to say their last goodbyes. They even had the size to accommodate such a large group that showed up . The package deals that they offered were cost-effective and didn’t break my bank account. They included extras and accommodations that other funeral homes charged extra for. All the staff was amazing including Mr. Don Dodd . I can not thank them enough for all their help."
The Gillilands
The Gillilands[click to read more]
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Dear John,

It was such a nice pleasure to meet you, and what you had planned for my father just took my breath away. It was so special to hear you tell us how he would just come over to talk with you. I think it brought him much comfort. Tha you for putting that Air Force article of him on your website. I am going to have a replica made of the painting of his plane to give you.

Thank you again for all you have done to honor our dad.

Love, The Gillilands

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