Thomas Edwin Wroe

April 17, 1944 – April 8, 2025

Thomas Edwin Wroe, beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on April 8, 2025, just days before his 81st birthday.

Tom was born on April 17, 1944, at Edgewood Arsenal Military Base in Edgewood, Maryland, to Edwin Arthur Wroe and Francis “Ann” Johnson. He was raised in Pennsylvania and Delaware alongside his beloved sister, Patty, where he developed a love for nature, swimming, and friendships that would bless him throughout his life. He often spoke of his love for his family and the areas of his childhood that nurtured the roots of his character.

In response to being drafted into the Army in 1964, Tom chose instead to enlist in the United States Navy, where he proudly served during the Vietnam War as a deep-sea diver. His work in recovery and underwater ship repair was both dangerous and vital to the success of the United States. He served his country with courage and honor for five years, six months, and twenty-three days.

While stationed in Long Beach, California, he met the love of his life, Ann. Though initially resistant to the idea of dating a sailor, Ann eventually relented to Tom’s attempts and agreed to go on a date. She discovered that she really liked him, and this began a loving devotion that would last eternally. They were married on February 14, 1969 - Valentine’s Day.

After completing his military service, Tom continued his commitment to public safety by working as a firefighter for the Rialto Fire Department. During this time, he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Fire Science from California State University, Los Angeles, and he also became a certified paramedic.

Tom’s spiritual journey became a defining part of his life. While living in Rialto, Ann began taking their children to Primary. Feeling a bit left out, Tom began meeting with the missionaries. Though initially a “tough nut to crack,” his heart softened, and his conversion deepened. Ann knew he truly had a testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ when he began paying a full tithe. Tom was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on September 9, 1978. Just a year later, on September 15, 1979, their family was sealed for time and all eternity in the Los Angeles, California Temple. One of the greatest joys of his life was being able to baptize his two daughters into the Church.

While serving as a fire fighter in Rialto, Tom discovered a slight paralysis developing that made it difficult to hold a fire hose. This condition eventually prevented him from continuing in such a physically demanding role. So, he moved his family to Utah where he worked as a fire inspection engineer. Tom was later diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, a disease that would slowly progress and impact him for the rest of his life.

Ultimately, and despite the progression of MS, Tom’s dedication to public service led to his hiring as the Utah County Fire Marshall. A lifelong learner, Tom, then pursued a Master of Public Administration from Brigham Young University and graduated on April 23, 1992. He was promoted to Sergeant and continued his service as the County Fire Marshall, a position he held with integrity and diligence until his retirement in 2004. He would refer to his work colleagues as “brothers,” and considered his association with them as one of the greatest blessings in his life.

Tom's life was marked by strength and endurance amid debilitating physical challenges, unwavering loyalty, and a deep love for his family, his friends, and the Savior. He fulfilled his many roles with faith - whether serving in his profession, in his Church callings, or as a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. His legacy of service, testimony, and enduring love will continue to bless generations to come.

He was preceded in death by his father, Edwin Wroe, and his mother, Ann McGinnis. He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife, Ann, his sweet sister, Patty White (Doug), their children, Denice Wroe (Mike Spilman), and Tina Fairbourn (Clint), their grandchildren Colton Thomas Fairbourn (Kelsey), Brady Clinton Fairbourn (Julia), Abby Ann Fevold (Bryce), and Sadie Ann Callister (Jackson), their three great grandchildren Ledger, Reese, and Tommy… and soon to be born, Vance Callister, as well as many dear nieces and nephews, and friends and loved ones. His family rejoices in the knowledge of eternal families and looks forward to the day they will be reunited with him again.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”

—Matthew 25:21

Before the funeral service, from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m., we warmly invite you to greet and offer your condolences to the family. This will be a time to share memories, find comfort in one another, and honor Tom’s life and legacy. Immediately following will be the funeral service starting at 10:30 a.m.

Funeral Service Date: Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 10:30 a.m.

Location: At the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 495 South Canyon Road, Springville, Utah.

Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81569165989?pwd=7lb0Pbrl4fAWNwtmdoaZIA9vSOwLxp.1

Meeting ID: 815 6916 5989

Pass Code: 617517