Thomas Pabst Kissick

Thomas Pabst Kissick, 80, of Lawton, departed this life on Thursday, May 2, 2024, following a short illness. The second of five children born to Neil Pabst Kissick Sr. and Mary Elizabeth (Perry) Kissick, Tom was born Jan. 26, 1944, in Carthage, Missouri. At an early age, he moved with his family to Lawton, where his father managed the S. H. Kress store.

Tom attended Lawton Public Schools and graduated from Lawton High School. He attended Cameron College and graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Science degree. After serving in the United States Navy and earning his Master of Science degree from the University of Kansas, he embarked on a long career as a research chemist at Squibb Institute for Medical Research Headquarters (now Bristol Myers Squibb) in Princeton, New Jersey. Following his retirement, he returned to Lawton to live near his family.

Tom had a calm and easygoing nature, and he was a loyal friend and family member who always spoke kindly of others. He had an independent spirit and inspired others in his lifelong quests for knowledge, travel, and adventure. He read constantly. Science, art history, and ancient history were some of his favorite subjects, and he had a particular interest in Egyptology. He traveled extensively throughout the United States, Europe, South America, and the Middle East, and he made many trips to Egypt. He had an endearing and remarkable talent for curating unique bespoke gifts and adventures for others, and he guided those in his circle on many fun and enlightening adventures in the New York and New Jersey area.

He is survived by his brother, Larry Kissick of Cache; his sister, Elizabeth (Kissick) Albury of Lawton; his brother, Neil Kissick Jr. of Keller, Texas; and his extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, John Kissick.

A private memorial service will be held at a future date. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.

An online guest book and sympathy cards are available at www.beckerfuneral.com.