Tom L. Rariden

Tom Lee Rariden 73, walked into the loving arms of Jesus pain free on Wednesday, September 28, 2022. Tom passed in the presence of his loving sister. Tom had resided at Ascension Living Sacred Heart Village in Avilla, IN.

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I can not change, the courage to change the

things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.

God saw you getting tired. When a cure was not to be. So he wrapped His arms around you and

whispered “Come unto me”. You didn’t deserve what you went through, and so He gave you

rest. God’s garden must be beautiful, He only takes the best. So when I saw you sleeping, so

peaceful and free from pain. I could not wish you to come back, to suffer that all again.

Tom Lee Rariden was born in Fort Wayne, IN to James and Doris “Jean” Closson Rariden on

July 27, 1949. They both preceded him in death. Tom was born on his Grandmother Effie

McMillan Closson’s birthday. His Grandfather was William R Closson.

Tom grew up as the 3rd generation on the Wilford and Virginia Rariden’s family farm east of

Harlan, IN, before moving to Grabill, IN in 1966. Tom attended Woodlan High School and Leo

High School. He drove semi for many years before his health declined. He had many stories of

his experiences on the road. He could tell you about any interstate and what exit you needed to

get off at. One of his favorite stories was of Johnny Cash singing a song for him on the CB

radio. Tom was a avid bowler and he played in several leagues in the Fort Wayne, IN area.

NASCAR was another favorite of his, and he could not wait for the season to begin. As a

student Tom did not like to read, but he loved reading all the Harry Potter books. Bond, James

Bond were his favorite movies.

Tom is survived by 4 children, 9 grandchildren and several great grandchildren, sister and

brother in law Cathy and Rick Taulbee and nephew Cameron Taulbee all of Auburn, IN and

many cousins. Tom leaves behind his loving companion Margaret, who gave him a reason and

purpose to get up in the mornings. Tom also leaves behind his best fur friend, Rusty in the care

of Mark and Susan.

Services provided by Thomas Funeral Home, Garrett, IN

Private graveside services will be held at a later date in Harlan Cemetery

Memorial donations may be made to Ascension Living Sacred Heart Village 515 N Main Street

Avilla, IN 46710 in Tom’s memory.

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