Thomas Milan

Thomas Milan, husband, father, and grandfather passed away on April 4, 2024 while spending the winter season in Florida with his loving wife, Eleanor.

He was born on November 26, 1941 in Pepperell, MA, son of the late Thomas Arthur and Mary (Jastrab) Milan. He grew up in Pepperell, attending Pepperell High School and Keith Academy in Lowell, where he was a stand-out local athlete.

Tom was well known for his work ethic, keen sense of humor, connection with his home town of Pepperell, and his passion for sports.

Tom proudly served our country in the US Navy from 1959 to 1961 aboard the USS Yosemite (AD-19). He then spent 40 years working at James River, the Pepperell Paper Mill, with an additional 5 years at the Bemis Company in Shirley before his retirement in 2007.  He was committed to his work, exemplified by receiving an award for never missing a day of work in 40 years. That kind of dedication is rare and speaks volumes about his character.

Tom was the embodiment of team spirit and passion! He demonstrated his unwavering love for professional New England sports teams and rarely missed watching a game, whether basketball, baseball, or football. 

Tom was a legendary supporter of sports at North Middlesex Regional High School, earning the nickname "Super Fan”.  While his booming voice, inspiring players to give it their all is gone, the memories will live on.

Tom valued the simple things in life like watching movies or reading the sports page with a Natty Daddy beer and a couple of scratch tickets. Taking a drive, fishing local rivers and streams, vacationing on Newfound Lake or the Outer Banks in North Carolina were all things that he valued. 

Tom had a remarkable ability to connect with people and an uncanny knack for remembering names. He always wanted to know something about you and would put a smile on your face with his witty comments or hilarious voice messages that were often saved by children and grandchildren alike as a fond memory of him.

Tom Milan was an unforgettable person who will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Tom is survived by his wife, Eleanor, his four daughters Joanne Milan, Karen Milan, Lisa Milan, Christine (and Ted) Lorden, his brother Michael (and Betsy), his three step-children Lynn Hawkins, James Rioux, and David Rioux,  and his many grandchildren.  

Tom is predeceased by his parents Thomas Arthur and Mary (Jastrab) Milan, sister Marilyn Kab, brother Robert Milan, daughters Laurie Milan and Michelle Roach.

Services will be held at McGaffigan Funeral Home, 37 Main St. (Rte. 113) Pepperell, MA on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at 11:00am followed by interment at the Pepperell Cemetery on Park St.