MARLOCK THOMAS J
CW2 Thomas "Tom" J Marlock was a potential VHPA member who died after his tour in Vietnam on 02/14/2024 at the age of 80.6
Miami, FL
Flight Classes 67-1 and 66-23
Date of Birth 07/06/1943
Served in the U.S. Army
Served in Vietnam with A/3/17 CAV in 67, D/229 AVN 1 CAV, 2/17 CAV 101 ABN
This information was provided by Tom Pearcy
More detail on this person: Thomas John
Marlock
JULY 6, 1943 - FEBRUARY 14, 2024
IN THE CARE OF Howard-Quattlebaum Funeral,
Cremation and Event Center
It is with deep sadness that we announce the
passing of a true American patriot. Thomas J.
Marlock, 80, passed peacefully on February 14th,
2024. He was a dedicated military helicopter pilot
who served his country with honor and valor during
the Vietnam War. He was not only a skilled aviator
but a loving father, grandfather, friend and an
all-around incredibly great man.
He was born in Lake Township, PA in 1943 and
attended Cortland High School in Ohio. He later
graduated from Austin P. State University where he
earned a degree in Business.
Tom proudly served in the Air Force from 1961 to
1965 and in the Army from 1966 to 1982. He served
two tours in Vietnam with the 3/17 Cavalry flying
Huey and Cobra helicopters. He was also part of
the 101st Airborne Division and 2/17 Cavalry at
Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He was later assigned to
the Army Recruiting Division in Miami where he
retired from the military.
During his military service, he earned several
awards, including the Distinguished Flying Cross,
Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal,
Army Commendation Medal and Air Medal.
After retiring from his distinguished career in
the military Tom worked in management for Pan Am
World Services, Alert Management System, United
Safeguard and Aviation Safeguard. In 2002 he
joined TSA at Palm Beach International Airport as
a manager and retired in 2009.
Often referred to as one-of-a-kind, a man of few
words, and a man's man through and through, "Dirty
Tom" had a strong spirit with an unmatched sense
of humor and wit. He reveled in the camaraderie
when attending Vietnam reunions with his fellow
Silver Spurs and shared countless stories of both
hardships and triumph.
Tom was a good friend to those fortunate enough to
know him. His sense of joy, and unwavering support
enriched the lives of all who were blessed to be a
part of his circle.
In his moments of leisure, Tom enjoyed the simple
pleasures of life. Whether it was a day spent
fishing, a round of golf, enjoying a Jack and
water at the Waterway Cafe, or finding any excuse
to bring up his famous encounter with Goldie Hawn.
He found solace and joy in the company of family,
friends and his fur companions Cassie and Mikayla.
Thomas J. Marlock is survived by his loving
lifetime companion, Lorraine Johnsen, daughter
Lisa and husband Steve Cote, granddaughters
Kimberly and Elizabeth, nephew Thomas Lilly, and
sisters Penny Moser and Sandy Marlock. He was
preceded in death by his father Thomas C. Marlock,
mother Lois J. Dewalt, sisters Kathy M. Lilley and
Diane Marlock, and grandson Patrick Cote.
A celebration of life is to be announced at a
later date to honor and remember the life of
Thomas J. Marlock. Donations in Tom's memory
may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361
Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.
This information was last updated 03/11/2024
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Date posted on this site:
10/13/2025
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