Thomas Andrew Pyrch

January 29, 1952 - January 04, 2018

Obituary For Thomas Andrew Pyrch

Lt.Col. Thomas Andrew Pyrch

Thomas (Tom) Andrew Pyrch of Raleigh, NC passed away at home on Thursday, January 4, 2018 after a 12 year battle with cancer. Born January 29, 1952, in Bridgeport, CT, he was the son of the late Nicholas Andrew Pyrch and Lucille Sloan Pyrch, of Milford, CT.

After graduating from Milford High School, Milford, CT, Tom attended the United States Air Force Academy. He graduated with a BS in Engineering Sciences in 1974. He also later received a Masters in Aeronautical Engineering from Embry-Riddle University. Following graduation, he embarked on a long and distinguished military career in the United States Air Force. He began his service as a F-4 pilot. Lt.Col. Pyrch was a command pilot, logging over 1,000 flight hours in the F-16. He flew numerous combat missions during Operation Desert Shield/Storm, receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism. He concluded his service as a Squadron Commander at Shaw AFB, SC.

In his retirement, Tom moved with his family to Raleigh. He worked briefly in financial planning, fully retiring in 1995. Tom enjoyed supporting his sons in all their academic and athletic events. A lifelong adventurer, Tom enjoyed traveling with his wife, skiing, gardening, reading, and woodworking. His fondest memories were spent with his family at Lake Gaston. More recently, he loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Tom is survived by his wife of 37 years, Rebecca “Becky” Pyrch; sons 1LT Andrew T. Pyrch, and his wife, Jenni, of Colorado Springs, CO and Scott T. Pyrch, and his wife, Lauren, of Alpharetta, GA; and grandchildren: Amos, Izzy, Katherine, and Laney.

Survivors also include brothers: James Pyrch, William Pyrch, Edward Pyrch, and Patrick Pyrch; and sisters: Debra Pyrch, Angeanetta Murray, Margaret Bowlan, and Maureen Pyrch.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Nicholas Pyrch, Jr., and his parents.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Frances Collichio and Paula Landman of the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center for their tireless efforts during his care.

The family will receive visitors on Friday, January 12, from 5 to 7 PM, at Renaissance Funeral Home of Raleigh. A memorial service will be held at 2 PM on Saturday, January 13, at North Raleigh Presbyterian Church, 11905 Strickland Rd., Raleigh.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, CB 7295, UNC-CH, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, or the United States Air Force Academy Endowment, 3116 Academy Dr, Suite 200, USAF Academy, CO 80840.

Services

12 Jan

Visitation

05:00 PM - 07:00 PM

Renaissance Funeral Home & Cremation Tribute Center 7615 Six Forks Rd Raleigh, NC 27615 Get Directions »

13 Jan

Memorial Service

02:00 PM

North Raleigh Presbyterian Church 11905 Strickland Road Raleigh, NC 27613 Get Directions »

by Obituary Assistant

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Condolences

September 01, 2020

Steve Duresky

So sorry to hear of Tom's passing. Sharon and I have fond memories of Tom and Becky as our street neighbors in Riverdale, Utah, back in the early 80s, and then at MacDill AFB after that. He was a great neighbor, fighter pilot and friend, always ready with a smile and a helpful hand. We will miss him. Hugs to Becky from Sharon and me. Steve Duresky, Niceville, FL
September 01, 2020

Maureen P Pyrch

Sent a gift in memory of Thomas Andrew Pyrch
September 01, 2020

Jan Tavrytzky

Dear Becky and boys, So sorry to hear of Tom's passing. Undoubtedly he's in a better place! My greatest memory of him besides his constant smile, was the fact that he was in great shape as a LTC during our deployment to Desert Storm and was part of our great soccer team that was made up of mostly Lt's & Capts! We almost took out the UAE National team being up the 1st half but then ran out of steam the 2nd half. Tom was aggressive and in the mix! A true Warrior on the ground and in the air! Motivational for all us young guys! Our sincere condolences as you will be in our thoughts and prayers. Big hug Becky and knuckles men! Very respectfully, Tav P.S. We have made a donation to the Academy Fund in memory and honor of Tom.
September 01, 2020

Gregory W Lewis

I am deeply saddened to learn of Tom's passing. I will always remember his warm smile, and his friendly calming demeanor. Let me tell you I saw firsthand Tom's incredible bravery, leadership, and flying skills during Desert Storm -- he was an inspiration to us all. God Bless you all, I'm a better person for having known Tom Pyrch! Greg Lewis
September 01, 2020

Maureen P Pyrch

Tom will always be in my Heart.