Thomas Joseph Nolan, age 78, formerly of Hartland, residing in Apache Junction, Ariz., passed away Dec. 7, 2002, at home.

Tom was born to Bernard William (Will) Nolan and Cora (Hanson) Nolan of Hartland, on Jan. 3, 1924. He graduated from Freeborn High School in 1942.

He served in the Army, Company A of the 818th Engineers Aviation Battalion from January 1943 to December 1945, European Theater of Operations.

Thomas was a mechanic and employed by: Hinkley Chevrolet, JC Penney, and

Ulland Brothers. After his retirement, he worked for Good Samaritan Center, Albert Lea, transporting residents to and from appointments. He said this was the most gratifying position he ever had.

Thomas married Zita Jones on Sept. 4, 1965, at St. Pius X Catholic Church, Rochester.

Thomas is survived by his wife, Zita of Apache Junction, Ariz.; his daughter, Ann Nolan, and son, Robert Nolan, both of Plainview, Minn.; his brother, Bernard Nolan of Hartland; his brother-in-law, Lawrence Dunlavy of Clark, S.D.; his aunt, Marion Finrud of Lindstrom, Minn.; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother and sister-in-law, Buster and Margaret Nolan; and his sister, Veronica Dunlavy.

A memorial service, with final internment will be held at Fort Snelling at a later date.