Thomas O. Rye, 59, of Sweet Home passed away April 22, 2013 at his home with his family. He was born in Richmond, California, the son of Loren H. and Betty I. (Buxton) Rye. Thomas was raised in California and later moved to Oregon.

He attended Lebanon High School and married his high school sweetheart, Connie. Thomas served in the US Army as a Military Police officer and was stationed in Korea for a year. He worked for Linn County Dog Control for 30 years, from which he gleaned many interesting stories.

Thomas had a wonderful sense of humor, a twinkle in his eye, and his laughter was very contagious. He loved all kinds of music and passed his love and gifts onto his family. Thomas enjoyed the outdoors, camping with his family on the Oregon coast and in the mountains. He will be missed!

Thomas is survived by: his wife, Connie; mother, Betty; daughter, Candace (and husband, Mike); granddaughter, Loren (whom he raised); sisters, Carol and Pat; and several nephews and nieces.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Thomas’ name to be sent to the Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport or the Oregon Zoo in Portland.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sweet Home Funeral Chapel.