On July 5th, the world lost an amazing man, Tom Lonn of Eatonville, WA passed away. Tom was born in Shelton, WA on May 22, 1935 to Viola Johnson Lonn and Ben Lonn Sr. The family moved to Eatonville in the late 1930's. His father passed away when he was young and his mother married Curtis Hedborg, who became his much loved step-father. He grew up on the homestead, attended school in Eatonville, graduating in 1953. He then spent 4 years in the Marines before returning to his home to work in the logging industry. He worked in Tacoma as a boat builder after apprentice school at Bates Community College he joined the Carpenters Union Local #470 and had a long career as a proud union carpenter. In 1962 he married the love of his life, Joanne and became a devoted father to her 3 children. In 1965 they added a daughter to their family. Tom was very active in his community and was an advocate for many projects for the town of Eatonville. Tom served on the town council, helped build and drove the first daffodil floats, as an Eagles member and activities director built ballfields, and coached baseball teams. To be closer to work the family lived in Edgewood for 25 years. Then retired back to the Eatonville area in 1997 after purchasing 20 acres cut and milled the timber and built a new home. After retiring, one of his most important roles was a Lions club member. As a Lion, Tom held many offices, including District governor for District 19. Through the Lions club he helped to re-model the Rainier Building in Eatonville, worked on improving local baseball fields, the fireworks stand, the Arts Festival, membership drives, Christmas tree sales and arranged for remarkable signage for his truck with his grandson Bryan for local parades and events to show the communities what Lions are all about, plus many more projects too numerous to name. Tom was also a member of the American Legion. And to the good friends that grew up with him he was known as the Ruler of the Raccoon club. Tom loved sports. He was a Husky football season ticket holder for 54 years and introduced his children and grandchildren to the love of sports and the joys of passionately (and loudly) watching the game whether at home or in the stadium. He is survived by his wife Joanne, his children Karon Lael, Jerry and Shawna Brashears, Debbie and David Conley, Trisha and Greg Brown, his Grandchildren Amy, Brenda, Bryan, Shannon, Michelle, Tina, Erika, Stephanie and Alycia, his 17 Great-grandchildren and 5 Great-great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. All of whom will never forget his never wavering love and support. He is now reunited with his 4 older brother's Ben, Larry, Louis and Les. Please join us in a celebration of his life at 2PM on Sunday August 23rd at Glacier View Park. 285 Fir Ave N, Eatonville, WA 98328. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in his name to the Eatonville Lions Club PO Box 385 Eatonville WA 98328.
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