Thomas P. Mayo, 89, last surviving son of Dr. William B. Mayo for whom Mayo Healthcare is named, passed away at the facility on May 28, 2010.

On February 16, 1943, Tom’s wife was informed by the War Office that he had been shot down during an air raid in Germany and killed. Two weeks later, a memorial service was held here in Northfield at the United Church. the church was filled to capacity for the service according to a report in the Northfield News at the time and included the entire senior class at Norwich and all of Tom’s brothers in Theta Chi fraternity where he belonged. During the service, two Army planes flew over the church, dipping their wings in salute.

Then, in mid-March, the family was notified that he was found safe in neutral territory. A telegram from the Secretary of War stated “the Secretary wishes to express his regret for the sorrow he must have caused by his last telegram. He later received word that Lt. Mayo is safe in neutral territory.”

He was a graduate of Northfield High School, class of 1938 and a graduate of Norwich University class of 1943.

He had been married to Beatrice Bourdon. He married Lorette M. Lapolice on July 13, 1953 in Tampa, Florida. She died January 9, 2001.

He served a total of 12 years with the military. He started his career as an engineer with the State of Vermont, retiring in 1982, after 25 years of service.

He was a member of the United Church of Northfield. He was an avid hunter and enjoyed his many hunting adventures, both local and afar.

Survivors include four children, Prudence “Pam” Michels of Carmel Valley, CA, Thomas Mayo of Northfield, John Mayo of Manchester, NH, Craig Mayo of Green Bay, Wisconsin; seven grandchildren, Liam Mayo, David Mayo, Eva Mayo, Kristen McGowen, Mark McGowen, Colin Mayo, Josephine Mayo; a few great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his siblings, William, Edgar, Anna Mayo, Deborah Beattie; a granddaughter, Anna Mayo.

There are no calling hours. A funeral service will be conducted Thursday, June 3rd at 11 a.m. at the White Chapel at Norwich University, followed by burial in the Calvary Cemetery also in Northfield. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Mayo Healthcare Activity Fund, 71 Richardson Street, Northfield, VT 05663. Kingston Funeral Home in Northfield is in charge.