Thomas L. Lavato, 72, of Proctor, died Tuesday, November 10, 2020, at his home.

He was born in Eveleth, MN, on February 18, 1948, the son of Paul and Olga (Ramponi) Lavato.

Thomas married Gloria Andrews on August 4, 1973 and celebrated 47 years together.

He was the owner and operator of Arrowhead Paint Products in Duluth with his son and partner, Nick.

Tom was a very active member of St. Rose Catholic Church and had served as the finance counselor trustee, as a lector, and as a eucharist minister. He was a former Proctor City Councilor and former Boy Scout Leader.

Tom was an alumnus of UMD, was an avid fan of the UMD Bulldog Hockey Team, and a member of the Blue Line Club. Most of all he loved his family, his grandchildren, and his faith.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Ellen (Archie) Rauzi; and sister-in-law, Agnes 'Aggie' Lavato.

Tom is survived by his wife, Gloria; children, Stephanie 'Stevie' (John) Rosch of Arvada, CO and Nicholas 'Nick' (Danielle) Lavato of Superior; grandchildren, Craig, Giada, Brennan, and Gabrielle 'Gabby'; siblings, Paul 'Buck' Lavato of Eveleth, William 'Bill' (Bonnie) Lavato of Eveleth, MN; sister-in-law, Dalejean (Bruce) Nelson of Lino Lakes, MN; and many nieces and nephews.

His visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, November 13, 2020, at St. Rose Catholic Church, 2 Sixth Avenue, Proctor, MN 55810 with Rev. Fr. James Bissonette as celebrant. Burial will be in Oneota Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be his nephews.