Obituary of Thomas (Tom) Matthew Apligian

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.