Tom Kyser, 66

Thomas Allen Kyser, 66, of Lander, Wyo., formerly of Mountain Home, died Jan. 6, 2006 in Apple Valley, Calif., surrounded by his family.

A memorial service will be held at the City of Lander Park Facility on Jan. 21, at 2:00 p.m.

"The loss of Tom not only impacts his family, but also that of many friends that he had made around the world. Tom's legacy includes a family that loved him deeply and a network of friends that will always love and remember him for his intelligence, integrity and humor," his family said.

Tom's formative years were spent at the Connie Maxwell Children's Home in Greenwood, S.C., where he was raised with his brother, James, and sister, Margaret. "Much of Toms character, leadership and discipline were developed there, where he was fondly remembered as Tommy," his family said.

Tom retired as a chief master sergeant after serving 31 years in the U.S. Air Force. He spent 13 of those at Mountain Home Air Force Base. "His character and leadership served his fellow airmen with distinction," his family said.

After retiring he eventually moved back to his beloved Wyoming where be worked for the City of Lander Parks and Recreation Department.

He is survived by: his wife, Judy, of Apple Valley, Calif.; a son, Greg, and his wife, Ocean, of Boise; three daughters, Beth, and her husband, Eric, and Kim and Ellyn, all of Apple Valley; his sister, Margaret; step-sister Mickey; sister-in-law Roberta Quarles; and 8 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brother, James, and step-brothers Hank and Jack Kyser.

Donations can be sent to Veterans Memorial Fund, First Interstate Rank, 9118 Highway 789, Lander, Wyo., 82520, which will support the construction of the Wyoming Veterans Memorial in Lander.