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Thomas Rainbolt Obituary

The funeral service for Thomas A. Rainbolt of Lawrence, Kansas, will be held Thursday, May 4 at 10:00 a.m. at Corpus Christi Catholic Church. Rosary will begin at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 3, also at Corpus Christi; visitation will follow until 7:30 p.m. A private burial will be at a later time. Tom passed away unexpectedly at his home on April 29, 2017.

Tom was born December 3, 1964 in Bloomington, Indiana, the son of Harry and Rosella Rainbolt. He graduated from Manhattan High School in 1983. Tom attended Doane University in Crete, Nebraska on a football scholarship, Kansas State University in Manhattan, and the University of Kansas in Lawrence. He received a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska in 1991. Tom completed his advanced education in General Dentistry Residency at Fort Riley in 1992, and served in the United States Army Dental Corps in Hohenfels, Germany for two years.

Upon returning to the United States in 1994, Tom joined the dental practice of Dr. John Wulfkuhle in Lawrence, eventually buying the practice of Drs. Wulfkuhle and Rainbolt. Since 2005, he has owned and practiced at Cascade Dental Care.

Tom was a member of the American Dental Association and the Lawrence Country Club, as well as Vice President of the Oread Office Park Owners Association. An intrepid adventurer from an early age, his favorite activities included golf, big-game hunting, snow skiing, world-wide traveling, and spending quality time with friends. Tom also was a licensed private pilot.

Those who knew Tom fondly remember his playfulness, positive upbeat attitude, big heart, generosity toward others, love of life and ability to live it fully, and voracious reading appetite.

Above all, Tom was a proud and loving father, faithful son, revered brother, and reliable friend. He is survived by his two daughters, Natalie Nicole Rainbolt and Kari Ann Rainbolt, both of Lawrence, his parents Harry and Rosella Rainbolt, Lawrence, a brother Michael Harrison Rainbolt of Plano, Texas, and a sister Kathryn Anne Rainbolt and nephew Matthew Harrison "Harry" Rainbolt, both of Lawrence. Tom was formerly married to Deborah Oehme Rainbolt, Lawrence. Close friend Megan Wilson also survives.

He will be greatly missed by all who know and love him.

The family suggests memorials be made to First Downs for Down Syndrome (www.fdfds.org), the Douglas County Dental Clinic (www.dcdclinic.org), and The First Tee youth development organization (https://thefirsttee.org) or may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.

Online condolences may be posted at warrenmcelwain.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Lawrence Journal-World from May 1 to May 2, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Rainbolt

Not sure what to say?





SEAN MURPHY

April 25, 2024

I just remember playing football with Tom at Manhattan High. I loved his smile no matter what we were doing. If we were running 40´s, hitting the weights or doing two a days in the August heat he still had a smile rolling most of the time. Miss you brother:

Delma Hepner

April 29, 2022

Was my Dentist! I think he was greatest guy. He is missed so much!

Patricia Piety

April 25, 2021

Uncle Harry, I will always remember the time our family was on the way to California to visit Harold's dad and your boys were little guys that Rosella was giving a bath. I never got to know Tom as an adult, but I know how much you and Rosella loved him. I'm sure you miss him--and Rosella, as well. I miss her. Love to you and Kate and Little Harry.

sean murphy

April 25, 2020

Hey Bolt, it isn't just at the end of April that you are on my mind. Sometimes, at the most abstract moments, you will just pop into my thoughts to say hi. You were a great teammate and friend. I miss your crooked smile and your laugh. Love you brother. +

Chuck Heinz

April 25, 2019

Harry, Rosella and Michael. Can't believe it's been a year. Tom will be always be remembered as a class man and a friend. I think George Furney got hired to take Darrells place. When I saw George, I thought about all the good times we had at Stagg. Tom and you all are still in our prayers. Chuck.

Chuck Heinz

May 26, 2017

Jr as I called him, was a really nice young man when he played golf . I was the Pro/Manager in his younger days and helped him develop his game and his demeanor. We used to give the kids golf games and awards for putting and chipping. A soda, candy, and the big prize was a double cheeseburger. I felt close to Tom and gave him a signed scorecard from the Ed McMhan tournament at Oakwood country club after Sam Snead shot his age, being the first in history. Tom will be special, as well as Harry and Rosella.I will look up in the sky and will know Tom is praying for all of us. Miss you Tom.

Harold Piety

May 26, 2017

Harry and Rosella, I am so sorry to hear about your terrible loss. My deepest condolences. Harold Piety

Kiley (Crill) Athanasiou

May 17, 2017

I am sending my sincere condolences to the Rainbolt family. We are all shocked and saddened by his passing. Tom's brilliant smile and fun-loving personality will always be a reminder of what a great guy he was.

Dr. Christine Hoang

May 8, 2017

Our sincere condolences and prayers are with the Rainbolt family and loved ones. Dr. Christine Hoang and staff

Jane Hollingsworth

May 6, 2017

Please know that the entire Hollingsworth family has all of the Rainbolt family is in our thoughts and prayers. We am so incredibly sorry for loss. He was a wonderful man and will be deeply missed. Rest in peace, Tom.

Laura McCall

May 5, 2017

We are saddened by the loss of Dr. Rainbolt. Our relationship was that of dentist and clients over the years, beginning when he joined Dr. Wulfkuhl's practice many years ago. He had a perpetual smile that lit up a room. He was a funny and positive person. Our children, adults now, enjoyed their visits.He made it clear he loved his family and sports . We send condolences to his family at home and his staff at work.May his memories help you cope with your loss.
Ron and Laura McCall and family

Kirsten Ziemek

May 5, 2017

Ich bin sehr traurig .

Chris Sesler

May 4, 2017

Tom was a great friend of mine. I meet him starting in elementary school at Marlatt. In high school and later on we went out a ton of times, we went to Colorado together to ski, I went to Doane College once to rescue him as he put it, saw him in Omaha when he was in dental school, he and Debbie visited me in L.A., CA in 1989/1990 and I remember going to a L.A. Dodgers game and Malibu, and when he was back in Manhattan practicing as a dentist we would watch Monday night NFL football games and went to a few KSU football games. Tom was very smart, generous, and a good athlete. We sat together on the bus for high school football games. He could have sat with anyone but he sat with me and I really thought that was great. Tom was able to have many friends from different groups because he had a great personality and was very positive and fun to be with. Even though I had not spoken to him in a long time the memories of him will always be there. Rest in Peace Bolt. Thanks for being you and being a great friend.

Susanna Parker

May 4, 2017

Rosella & Harry,
Craig and I are so very sorry for the loss of your son. You will remain in our thoughts and prayers.

Scott Herink

May 3, 2017

Tom always met you with a smile. He was a friend to everybody. Our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy to his family. Scott Herink & family

Funky Cold

May 3, 2017

When the tears hit your face, and the whole world is on your case, Tommy would offer you a warm embrase. I know you haven't made your mind up yet. Tommy would never do you wrong. I've known it from the moment that we met. There is no doubt in my mind where you belong. But you ain't seen nothing like me. T-Bolt

Brandon and Karen Schoenhofer

May 3, 2017

I first met Tom while sitting in a dentist chair back in 1994 and has been my friend and dentist ever since. I always looked forward to sharing our hunting stories and pictures, during the many office visits with all of my daughters too. He never met a stranger. Great Man! Great Friend! My family and I will miss him dearly. Praying for you.

Tom Harry Kate Rosella

Rosemary Vergin

May 3, 2017

Rosemary Vergin

May 3, 2017

Tom, Michael, Kate Iowa City Dec 1969

Rosemary Vergin

May 3, 2017

With Grandma Ruth Schafer Rainbolt & Rosella & Michael 1967 Creal Springs

Rosemary Vergin

May 3, 2017

Fall 1971

Rosemary Vergin

May 3, 2017

1964

Rosemary Vergin

May 3, 2017

Both born in 1964!

Rosemary Vergin

May 3, 2017

Harry, Tom & Mike

Rosemary Vergin

May 3, 2017

Rosella, Kate, Tom & Mike

Rosemary Vergin

May 3, 2017

With Uncle Jim Rainbolt

Rosemary Vergin

May 3, 2017

Tom & brother Michael

Rosemary Vergin

May 3, 2017

Family!

Rosemary Vergin

May 3, 2017

Rosella, Harry, Tom, Michael and Kate

Rosemary Vergin

May 3, 2017

1966

Rosemary Vergin

May 3, 2017

With our late Aunt Edith.

Rosemary Vergin

May 3, 2017

Tom, Yours was a life well lived! - your cousin Rosemary

Larry Heinen

May 3, 2017

Im very sad to hear of tom's passing, a few years of knowing him,his smile and his practicing putting & golf swing,when i called on the office brings back memories,rest in peace tom,condolences to yoir family

Lyle & Sharon Rohlmeier

May 3, 2017

We are so saddened by this loss. Dr. Rainbolt has been our dentist for nearly 20 years. He was absolutely the best! We offer prayers for his family.

Kathleen Baker

May 3, 2017

I saw the photo of Tom, with the family's cleft chin, and cried for the loss of my cousin. I knew Tom as a child, but not as an adult. Clearly my loss. Rosella and Harry, Kate and Mike, know that the Bakers have you all in our hearts and prayers. Our love is with you.

Nina Limeand

May 2, 2017

The whole family is just incredibly sad. Thinking of his loved ones.

Kim and Roberta Richey

May 2, 2017

We are richer for having been blessed by the friendship of this man. His optimism was infectious. We admired his youthful energy. We send our prayers for comfort to his family and friends.

Therese Tilley

May 2, 2017

I am so fortunate. No one would ever call my mouth a blessing, but recently it was - it gave me the opportunity to get to know my cousin, his family and his life - better. He was so happy, he was the good dad worrying about his daughter's spring break trip in Mexico, he was kind and reassuring as a professional to me, his cousin. I joked that he was a great "therapist". We will do our best to hug your girls and family in our love.

Dr James Otten

May 2, 2017

Our sincere condolences and prayers are with your family at this difficult time. We wish Tom and his family grace and peace in the days ahead. Dr James Otten and staff

Tom Bontrager

May 2, 2017

My brother and I lived up the block from Tom and Mike on Nichols Street when we were all growing up in the 70s. Later, when we were in college, I can remember golfing and lifting weights with him. He was a brightly lit person with great confidence and love of life. Deepest condolences to the whole Rainbolt family and all of Tom's friends.

Nicole Porter

May 2, 2017

Dr. Rainbolt,
I always enjoyed my dad's stories of you, him and others. Your contagious smile will definitely missed. You always encouraged me and was always genuine in your conversation and caring words. My husband was forever grateful when you would talk football with him. I know there are a lot of heartbroken individuals out there - my dad being one of them. You were a true friend, and it showed. Rest easy "Bolty" - you may be gone, but never forgotten.

Sean Murphy

May 2, 2017

One of the things I remember most about Tom is that if he was awake, he was smiling. I loved playing football with him from 7th grade all the way through high school. God Bless my friend.

Joy Blevins

May 2, 2017

My condolences to the whole family . Dr Rainbolt was our family dentist for 20 yrs. He was such a nice dentist. Rest in peace Dr Rainbolt...

Charles Heinz

May 2, 2017

I first met Tom at Stagg Hill golf course when he was a little golfer. He was always very polite, caring young man. When I opened the Manhattan paper last night, I was shocked beyond belief. The Lawrence community has lost a fabulous dentist, great man and very splendid human being. We will always miss his smile and caring attitude. May God hold him in the palm of his hands. Charles Heinz. Manhattan, KS

Tiffany Lacy

May 2, 2017

My deepest sympathies are with the Rainbolt family. A shocking loss for all that knew him.

Dianna Winsley

May 2, 2017

So sorry for his families loss! you are in my prayers.

Sean Williams

May 2, 2017

My last memory will be his enthusiasm on the Long Drive contest tee box where he was setting the record mark. Love to all family and friends ~ his smile and amiable spirit will be remembered fondly.

Delma Hepner

May 2, 2017

Will be so missed.Always had a fun word and big smile.My prayers to Rainbolt family and his office members and all his friends and loved ones.

Karen Hunt

May 2, 2017

He will be sorely missed. He was my dentist for a very long time and a good one. I will miss you Dr Rainbolt.

Regan Broadfoot

May 2, 2017

I can honestly say that even though I only knew Tom for a brief time, I would not be where I am today without him. He encouraged me to go back to school for dental hygiene and was an incredible role model. I admired him greatly and will miss him dearly.

Ed Hayward

May 1, 2017

So very sorry for your loss our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Glen Maughmer

May 1, 2017

Condolences and Prayers to the whole family. I was also a classmate of Toms and will always remember the great Can Do attitude he always had

Kip Etter

May 1, 2017

T-bolt you were one of a kind. Don't believe that I ever saw you in a bad mood, your passion for life was second to none, along with your friendships; if Tom was your friend you absolutely knew it. He always spoke highly of his girls, it was clear that he loved them deeply & was very proud of them. Tom you were a great person, a class act & will be missed by many. Thank you for the memories & your friendship. Prayers to your family & friends.

Sue Honegger

May 1, 2017

To Harry, Rosella, and Kate, I am so sorry for your loss. I pray that you will feel God's comfort in the days ahead.

Tommy Bittner

May 1, 2017

Tommy Rainbolt you leave us with a loss of words. You will be remembered as a great dentist, father, son, golfer, pilot, officionado of sorts, and friend. Your laughter, smiles and energy will be remembered and missed greatly.

Joe B and Nancy Jones

May 1, 2017

Thoughts and prayers for Tom's family. He loved his girls and friends and he showed it everyday. Bolt lived life at his pace and was never in a bad mood. We will miss his smile and storytelling. Way to soon to be gone.

Doug and Kathy Gaumer

May 1, 2017

Tom Rainbolt was a great friend who will be missed. Our hearts are breaking for the Rainbolt family. We are praying that God's love will bring you peace.

Tamara Piety

May 1, 2017

So sorry Uncle Harry! This is the greatest possible loss for a parent. You both are in my thoughts.

Mathias Ott

May 1, 2017

Deepest condolences for his beautiful family. Much too early you left us! What remains is our memories and a great time together in germany ! What a loss !

Terry/karen Mikan

May 1, 2017

Bolt your time here was way to short. You lived it to the max. Karen and I will remember all the wonderful time we had with you. Our deepest sympathies to Tom's family and many friends. We love you tommy and miss you forever.

Patricia Piety

May 1, 2017

Dear Uncle Harry and Rosella, my heart is breaking for you and the whole family. I'm sharing this photo of you and your boys from June 18, 1967, when you hosted our family on our way to California. Sweet memories!

May 1, 2017

Condolences and prayers for Tom's daughters, parents, girlfriend, family and friends at this tragic time. Anyone who know him loved him. You will be greatly missed, Bolt.
Becky Gonzales and family

Ben Shult

May 1, 2017

Very sorry to hear of Tom's passing. He was a terrific guy of whom I have many fond memories of mischief and fun.

Lissi knipl-zörkler

May 1, 2017

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Connie & Jeff Vesta

May 1, 2017

Keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers! Sorry for your loss.

My sorrow is with everyones!

Delma Hepner

May 1, 2017

So sorry to hear this.Its a shock. Has been my Dentist for several yrs. A nice friendly man .My thoughts and prayers go to family and staff

May 1, 2017

Dear Rosella and Harry,
Our deepest sympathy to you, Mike, Kate, and Harry. Words cannot express the sorrow we are feeling for you. May the Lord Keep you in His loving arms. Sharon and Chuck

Larry Sinks

May 1, 2017

Tom Rainbolt was simply the greatest. I have an amazing brother and I loved him just like I love my brother. Tom was genuine and I'm going to miss him more than I can ever say. No one on this planet could ever have had a better friend Tom. The sadness in my heart is immeasurable. I miss you my friend. God Speed.

May 1, 2017

Rosella and Harry, We are very sorry to hear this news. We will keep you in our thoughts. Take care.
Susan and Patrick Gormely

Greg Johnson

May 1, 2017

Condolences and prayers for all of Tom's Loved ones and friends, right now. I also was a classmate of his and admired him for the way he always lived his life to the fullest and set a great example for so many. He will be truly missed by a lot more people than he probably even ever realized.

Cecil and Teresa Kingsley

May 1, 2017

There aren't words for the loss everyone feels. We are sending special prayers to all of Tom's family and loved ones.

May 1, 2017

Our deepest sympathies to Dr Rainbolts family and work staff. He was one incredible man, father, son, friend and dentist. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

-The White Family

Rob Karsmizki

May 1, 2017

Very sorry for your families loss. He will forever be in my thoughts, I was truly blessed to have known him as a friend and classmate.

Kathy and John Keller

May 1, 2017

Rosella and Harry,
Sending our thoughts and prayers at this sad time. We pray that God will give you peace and hold you close.
With care and sympathy,
John and Kathy Keller

Debbie Rogers

May 1, 2017

My deepest sympathy to the family of Dr. Rainbolt. I know he will be dearly missed.

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