Thomas Ladd Gesme

Thomas Ladd Gesme, age 68, of Greensboro, GA, died Tuesday, January 31, 2012 at his home, surrounded by his family. Mr. Gesme was born on January 3, 1944 in Madison, WI. He was a 1962 graduate of Theodore Roosevelt High School in Des Moines, IA and in 1967 earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology from Memphis State University. He served as vice president of Sigma Chi Fraternity, but the highlight of his college years was meeting his future wife, Virginia Anne Atkinson, whom he married in 1967. The majority of his working years were spent at Baxter International, starting out in Quality Control and ending years later as National Accounts Manager. His career required moves to Arkansas, Alabama and Illinois enabling him to enjoy many parts of the U. S. and to become a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan. Tom was an avid fisherman and golfer, who was always happy to share his passions with others. Three years ago, Tom and Virginia moved from Statesboro, GA to the Del Webb Community in Greensboro, GA. Tom became a very familiar figure at Del Webb, where he was often seen wearing his maroon jacket, tending the fire at the Pavilion for Sunday evening sunsets, fishing off the piers and helping friends and neighbors on the bocce courts.

In addition to his wife Virginia, he is survived by a daughter, Debbie Tipperreiter and her husband Jim of Mundelein, IL; a son, David Gesme of Spring, TX; two grandchildren, Monica and Rachel Tipperreiter; and a number of relatives and close friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Donald Russell Gesme and Catherine Rocca Gesme.

Memorial Services will be held Saturday, February 4, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at the Del Webb Pavilion, 1001 Muscogee Way, Greensboro, GA with Fred Reese officiating. Family and friends will gather at the Del Webb Clubhouse immediately following the service. The family requests that any memorials be made to the American Cancer Society, 1684 Barnett Shoals Road, Athens, GA 30605-3007. McCommons Funeral Home, 109 W. Broad St., Greensboro, GA, (706) 453-2626, is in charge of arrangements. The guest register can be signed at www.mccommonsfuneralhome.com.

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