Thomas Sherwood Liston

SUPRISE – Tom Liston, 79, of Surprise, Arizona died on Monday, May 21, 2018, at his home. He was born June 21, 1938 in Indiana to Joyce and Harold Liston. Tom is survived by his wife Joan Alpaugh, daughter Stephanie Liston and granddaughter Genevieve Liston-Oakden.

Tom Liston graduated from Knoxville High School in 1957. He attended Indiana University and the University of Illinois where he completed a bachelor of science degree in accountancy and economics. Tom served as a lieutenant in the Army, where Tom had his first experiences in the world of retail. He earned a commendation award for his service.

Tom returned to the US in 1964 and married Susan Way in October 1965. He continued building his successful career in retail with Montgomery Ward (Detroit, Lansing and Chicago), Abraham & Strauss (New York), The Broadway (California), Gump’s (San Francisco), Crescent Jewelers and Barry’s Jewelers (Pasadena). Tom and Susan moved to Surprise when this appointment was complete. Susan was diagnosed with cancer in 1996 and died at home in November 1998.

Their granddaughter, Genevieve graduated from the University of St Andrews, Scotland, in June 2018. He has been a great supporter of Stephanie, an international lawyer, practicing in London, and Genevieve’s education, inspiring and enabling them to succeed throughout their college careers and beyond.

Tom met Frances Joan Alpaugh in her bereavement group in Surprise and they were married in June of 2000. His great skills as a finance director were once again in demand and he was recruited to help both E-Funds and PetSmart to turn around their financial position.

Following his “retirement” from these positions, Tom continued to pursue his interests, generosity and passions by supporting Benevilla and Spirit of Grace Lutheran Church. He served on the Counsel and Call Committee of Spirit of Grace and on the Board of Directors of Benevilla (2008 – 2013). Tom was recognised for his efforts by the Association of Fundraising Professionals for his generous support of Benevilla in 2011. In 2017, Tom was awarded the Bill Wolfrey Community Service Award in recognition of his outstanding support and service to Benevilla and the Northwest Valley Community.

Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2013, Tom weathered these difficult years with great patience and dignity. He regularly commented: “It is as it is”.