Thomas Laclair

Thomas James LaClair, age 92, of Austin, died Friday, January 13, 2012 at Good Samaritan Society Comforcare. Tom was born March 13, 1919 in Austin, Minnesota to Matie (Blowers) and Thomas LaClair Sr. He graduated from Austin High School in 1937. Tom worked for the Hormel Company in the mechanical division from 1937 to 1982. Just prior to Pearl Harbor, he enlisted in the Air Force, serving during the Air Offensive Europe, stationed in Egypt, Libya, and Tunisia. Tom received the Distinguished Flying Cross with oak cluster, the Air Medal, the European Defense Medal with three battle stars, the American Defense Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. On July 24, 1943 he married Elizabeth Novak. Tom enjoyed golf and duplicate bridge. Tom is survived by his wife of 67 years; his son, David (Joani), Rochester; daughter, Janet (Fred) Kusch, LaCrosse, WI; three grandchildren; six great grandchildren; sister, Marion (Dick) Christiansen, Jacksonville, FL. A Memorial Celebration will be held from 3-6 pm on Tuesday, January 17, 2012 at the Courtyard Apartments Community Room, 310 2nd Ave. NE. Interment will be in Fort Snelling National Cemetery at a later date. Memorials are preferred to the Austin Public Library. Arrangements by Mayer Funeral Home.

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