Thomas (Tom) Gelvin, 96, died May 19, 2023, in Kansas City, MO. He was born in Topeka, KS, to Mildred Melissa Granger and Clyde Richardson Gelvin, on February 5, 1927.

Tom graduated Topeka High School and attended Washburn University prior to his Army enlistment near the end of WWII.  Upon completing his service, he pursued his education at the University of Colorado, graduating with a BS in Economics. During his college years Tom was on the Colorado Ski Patrol and a proud Phi Delta Theta. He loved mountain climbing and hiking his whole life, climbing 24 of the Fourteeners in the state of Colorado.

He started a career with the J.C. Penney Company after college. Tom met the love of his life, Donna Maree Cravens, in October 1954; and after a brief courtship they were married in Wichita, KS on May 15, 1955. He became manager of the Junction City store in 1970 and served in that role until the location was closed in 1988.  J.C. Penney presented him with multiple President Cup awards for outstanding store performance under his management. During his working years he was President of the Rotary Club, Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce, and a regular volunteer for other civic duties.  Upon retirement he and his wife traveled the United States, Europe and many cruises with their friends and family.  When at home he Chaired the Geary County Community Hospital Foundation and served in many capacities at the Presbyterian Church where he had been a member over 50 years. Tom loved swimming at the YMCA, playing bridge, working puzzles and Sudoku.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, wife Donna, and two brothers: Richard and Robert Gelvin. Tom is survived by Jeffrey T. Gelvin, of Leawood, KS; Karen Kiefer, of Palm Beach Gardens, FL, and Kathy Mayer, of Overland Park, KS; five grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; and a loving extended family.

Visitation will be held at The First Presbyterian Church of Junction City, June 16, 2023, at 10 AM, followed by a memorial service and celebration of life at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with The First Presbyterian Church, 113 West 5^th Street, Junction City, KS 66441; and The Junction City YMCA, 1703 McFarland Road, Junction City, KS 66441.