Thomas James Franckowiak, of Fayetteville, NC, died at his residence March 21st, 2025. He was born on May 14th, 1942, to Lucille Stella Bogus and Felix Stephen Franckowiak at their home in Deuel County, NE, just outside of Julesburg, CO. The family moved to Lovell, Wyoming, where Tom graduated from Lovell High School in 1960. He worked a few jobs until he decided to enlist in the Army in November of 1963 and joined the Special Forces of the 82nd Airborne Division. Tom's service included two tours in Vietnam during the war. He received the Meritorious Service medal and Bronze Star among others and retired as a Master Sergeant (E-8). During his military career, Tom married JoAnn Arnoldus and they had 3 sons. He continued his military service and was stationed at various bases in the US and overseas. He and JoAnn eventually divorced, and he later married Cartha Haworth - expanding his family with her children Lesli and Dane.

Tom dedicated himself to helping those less fortunate.  Having witnessed the poverty and hardships of war firsthand, he aimed to bring compassion and support to those in need; He was striving to create a better world for all, especially those struggling with the weight and pressures of this life. He is survived by his sons, Robert (Tawnya) of Wellsville, UT, James (Angela) of Draper, UT, and Scott (Tonya) of Henderson, NV, wife Cartha Franckowiak of Spring Branch, TX, Sister-in-law Wilma Franckowiak of Cody, WY, brothers Peter Franckowiak of Denver, CO, John Franckowiak of Littleton, CO, and Stephen Franckowiak of Richland, WA.; sisters Fran Wolfe (Bob) of Richland, WA, and Mary Zimdars of Cody, WY; 11 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, and many nieces, nephews and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Patricia Wilk and Virginia Martinez of Powell, WY and brother Michael of Meeteetse, WY, and sibling infants Irene and Steven John.

A graveside service will be held at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA, at a future date.