Thomas D. Plantz

December 11, 1939 – February 15, 2026

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Thomas D. Plantz, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on February 15, 2026, at the age of 86, after a valiant fight with cancer, surrounded by those who loved him. His life was marked by strength, steady kindness, and a deep devotion to his family and community.

Born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Tom grew up with strong Midwestern values that shaped the man he became. He attended St. Charles Borromeo Grade School and De La Salle High School, where he formed lifelong friendships and developed the foundation for his future in service and leadership. He went on to earn his master’s degree in hospital administration from the University of Minnesota, a milestone that launched his long and meaningful career in healthcare.

Tom proudly served his country as a member of the United States Air Force, completing a tour of duty in Vietnam. His service reflected the same courage, discipline, and commitment to others that defined every chapter of his life.

In 1979, Tom moved to Tucson, Arizona, where he served as a hospital administrator for St. Mary’s Hospital. Through his vision, leadership, and dedication, he guided the evolution of St. Mary’s into Carondelet Health Network, an integrated system that came to encompass St. Mary’s, St. Joseph’s, and Holy Cross hospitals. His work strengthened healthcare access for countless families and left a lasting impact on the community he cared deeply about.

Tom was known for his generous spirit and his ability to make others feel seen and supported. Whether offering a helping hand, sharing a story, or simply listening, he brought warmth and steadiness to every room he entered. His family was the center of his world, and he took great pride in the love, resilience, and values he passed down through the generations.

He will be remembered for his dry sense of humor, his unwavering loyalty, and the way he showed love through action more than words. Those fortunate enough to know him carry with them the imprint of his compassion and integrity.

Tom was deeply engaged in his community and dedicated to service. He was a proud member of the Arizona Hospital Association, the Tucson Conquistadores, Rotary, DM50, Tucson Airport Authority, the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Sisters of the Barrio in Oro Valley. His involvement in these organizations reflected his lifelong commitment to helping others and strengthening the community he cherished.

Beyond his service, Thomas embraced life with enthusiasm. He enjoyed golfing, traveling, fishing, boating, University of Arizona basketball games, antiquing, woodworking, and the simple joy of creating with his hands. Some of his happiest moments were spent gathered

around the table for big Italian family dinners, where laughter, stories, and love were shared in abundance.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, George and Philomena Plantz, and his brother, James Plantz. He is survived by his devoted wife, Judi; his three daughters, Teresa (Ken), Michele (Mark), and Stephanie (Frank); his brother, Jack (Brenda); and his seven grandchildren—Ashley (Kyle), Michael (Amanda), Kaitlyn (Nic), Nick (Jillian), Ethan, Taylor and Jacob. He is also survived by three great-grandchildren, Grayson, Brynlee, and Austin, who brought him immense joy.

A Funeral Mass will be held on March 3rd at St. Juan Diego Catholic Church in Chandler, Arizona, at 9:30 a.m., where family and friends will gather to honor his life and legacy. Burial will be private.

Thomas will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.