Thomas Richard Zaroban Sr.

Thomas Richard “Tom” Zaroban, Sr., a resident of Princeton, TX, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, surrounded by family and friends, at the age of 68.  He was born on August 24, 1955, in Hastings, Nebraska, and spent his childhood years not only in his hometown but also in diverse locations like Japan, Morocco, and Belgium.

Tom graduated from the University of Nebraska – Kearney with a Bachelor’s of Science in Information Technology (IT). Over the course of his professional career, Tom was employed by the Kearney Police Department, TD Ameritrade, and Mutual of Omaha in various IT roles.

Tom is lovingly remembered by his children: Linsey Mae Gremillion (Ryan) of Pittsboro, North Carolina; Thomas Richard Zaroban, Jr. of Dallas, Texas; and Steven Joseph Zaroban of Omaha, Nebraska; along with his cherished grandchildren: Jackson Grey Gremillion and Beckett Watson Gremillion, who affectionately knew him as Grandpa Tom; and sisters, LeeAnn Cooper and Lin Jurgena. Tom’s life was also marked by a heartfelt chapter shared with his ex-spouse and high school sweetheart, Audre Holsten. Their 43-year union was a journey of love, shared with their children and grandchildren. Together, they cultivated a passion for travel, building a lifetime of memories. Tom’s life story is intricately woven with Audre’s presence, and the family is thankful for the years they spent together and the love that enriched their lives.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Major Richard Zaroban and Lola Watson Zaroban; his parents-in-law, LaVern Holsten and Shirley Dittrick Holsten; and his brother-in-law, Steve Jurgena.

Tom's approach to life was as unique and vibrant as his interests. His method of grilling New York strips was unorthodox yet brilliant, often leaving guests both amused and impressed. His green thumb led to a garden boasting zucchinis of almost comical proportions. His passion for the outdoors was legendary, especially evident in his deer hunting and fishing tales. These stories, wild and almost unbelievable, were told with such flair they captivated everyone around him. When it came to building bonfires, Tom was in a league of his own. His lighter-fluid powered fires were a neighborhood spectacle, lighting up the night sky and bringing family and friends together. Tom cherished his time on the golf course, enjoying the game as much for the company of his sons and friends as for the sport itself, and he equally treasured the freedom of riding his Harley on the open road. His dedication to the Nebraska Cornhuskers was unwavering; his support never faltered, even during their lean years, embodying the true spirit of a lifelong Husker fan. Tom looked forward to evenings spent relaxing with a cold beer and a good cigar, accompanied by the classic tunes of The Moody Blues, The Eagles, and Creedence Clearwater Revival.

Tom's passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him. His unique spirit, love for life, and the joy he brought to others will be greatly missed. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments, cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at Butler Volland Chapel in Hastings. The service will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. and will be led by Rev. Damen Jensen-Heitmann. Following the service, the procession will move to Parkview Cemetery in Hastings for the burial, where Tom will be laid to rest near his beloved parents. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be available via live-stream on the Livingston Butler Volland Funeral Home website. Additionally, those wishing to express sympathy and share condolences are welcome to do so online at www.lbvfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Live On Nebraska, an organization dedicated to saving and enhancing lives through organ and tissue donation. This cause held a special place in Tom's heart, reflecting his spirit of giving and his belief in the power of second chances.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to all of Tom’s family, friends, and caregivers for the outpouring of love, support, and kindness in his final days. Each visit, message, and gesture of care brought great comfort to Tom and touched our hearts profoundly.