Thomas Michael Unger
Thomas Michael Unger passed away peacefully at his home on Sept. 21, 2013.
Tom was born on Sept. 10, 1936, in Fergus Falls, Minn., to Albert and Eleanor Unger. He graduated from Fergus Falls High School and attended the University of Montana. He later served as a radio operator in the U.S. Army. After his honorable discharge, his love of Montana’s mountains called him to Whitefish and Big Mountain Ski resort where he met the love of his life, Sandi. Tom and Sandi married in 1965, and raised two daughters, Tracy and Kelly.
Tom held several positions at Big Mountain Ski Resort throughout his 20-year tenure, including bartender, ski patrol, and mountain manager. His girls lovingly remember the last runs of the day to sweep the mountain of any last remaining skiers. After he left Big Mountain, Tom was general manager of Silverhorn Mountain (now Silver Mountain Resort) in Kellogg, Idaho, and later owned his own pool and spa maintenance service business.
Throughout his life Tom was an avid hobbyist and his interests included photography, model railroading, leather crafting, ham radio and general “tinkering” about the house. Tom also loved the Montana Grizzlies and did not miss an opportunity to ensure they were the center of discussions when the Griz played rivals Eastern Washington University Eagles or Montana State University Bobcats.
Tom is survived by his children, Tracy and husband Tellus Calhoun of Albany, Ore., and Kelly Sue and husband Kelly Kadlec of Herriman, Utah; grandchildren, Jessica Calhoun, and Jaret and Trevor Kadlec; sister, Elizabeth “Bets” Aga of Brainerd, Minn.; and several other extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Eleanor Unger; brother, Al Unger; and wife of 45 years, Sandi Unger.
Tom will be remembered always as a great friend and truly special gentleman.
A celebration of Tom’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12 at Christ Lutheran Church in Whitefish.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to Home Options Hospice in Kalispell, as this was the charity closest to his heart.
Arrangements are entrusted to Austin Funeral Home. You are invited to go to www.austinfh.com to offer condolences, share memories and view Tom’s tribute wall.