TJ Tobol passed away suddenly and untimely at the young age of 38 following a hard-fought battle with COVID-19 on Thursday, February 11, 2021 at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena, Montana.
TJ was born on March 21, 1982 to Thomas J. Tobol and Laurie L. (Kenney) Tobol in Helena, Montana. TJ grew up in Helena attending 3R’s Preschool, Rossiter Elementary School, CR Anderson Middle School and Capital High School where he graduated with the Class of 2000. After high school, TJ obtained his AAS Degree in Automotive Technology from the Helena College of the University of Montana. TJ went to work at American Chemet as a Utility Operator in October 2004 and later moved to the shop where he was Mechanic/Relief foreman in 2006 which is where he continued to work up until the time of his death.
From a very young age, TJ had a deep passion for the outdoors and all it had to offer; a passion instilled by his family. Whether it was hiking, exploring, skiing, sledding, camping, hunting, fishing, or just taking a day drive in the hills; anytime he could be outside with his friends, family, or his kids, that is where he preferred to be. Outdoors was where TJ found peace and comfort. And boy could that kid hunt!!…. Another family passion passed down from his Dad! Once the hunt was over and the hard work began, you could always count on TJ to shoulder the load whether it was his kill or not. He was always the first person to strap on a drag rope or load up a pack.
TJ was also musically inclined, artistic, and a very talented writer. TJ was funny, a jokester, he always knew how to put a smile on your face and give you a good laugh. TJ’s kind heart and gentle soul always had room to love and give to others. TJ always made himself available to help everyone; you could always count on him to be there, to show up, and of course, to add the laughter! He was truly one of a kind! Until we see you again our sweet boy and big brother, we love you eternally!
TJ married Kylene LaRoque in October 2006. TJ and Kylene were married for thirteen years. From their union, two beautiful children were born, Riley Marie and Logan John Tobol. Riley and Logan were TJ’s pride and joy. For TJ, everything was about his kiddos. They were his priority, nothing else was more important or came first, it was all about them as it should be. He shared his love and passion for the outdoors with them, they hunted, fished, camped, and boated. He supported them in all their activities, becoming a football, softball, and yes, even a Cheer Dad! He spent every bit of time he had with them, WITH THEM. He was their rock and greatest supporter; he never missed an event and he never wanted to miss a moment with them. Starting over from scratch, he took great pride making their new home out in Townsend a special place for the three of them to be when they were together. He loved them more than anything in the entire world and will continue to watch over them from Heaven!
TJ is survived by his children Riley and Logan Tobol of East Helena/Townsend, his parents Tom and Laurie Tobol of Helena, his sister Jamie (Ben and Taetum) Gates of Helena, his brother Brian Tobol of Helena, Grandfather Ronald Lee (Gerry) Kenney of Billings, Step Grandfather Michael Davis of Glendive. He is also survived by numerous aunts and uncles Ron (Beth) Kenney Clinton, UT, Debbie Kenney of Missoula, MT, Gayle (Mark) Trenary of Helena, MT, Dan (Marilyn) Tobol of Boca Raton, FL, Joy (Chris) Bausch of Livingston, MT, Lynn Cheek of Helena, MT, Arleen (Steve) Winslow of Issaquah, WA, and Paula (Jim) Sansburn of Bend, OR. He is also survived by many loving cousins, extended family members, and many amazing and treasured friends.
TJ was preceded in death by his grandmothers Dorothy Jones Davis and Patricia Tobol Graber, his grandfather Jesse Neal Tobol, his great grandparents Milton and Helen Jones and Roger and Dorothy Kenney his great uncle Donald Jones, his cousin Baylea Kenney, and numerous other extended family members.
Graveside services will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, September 4th at Twin Bridges Cemetery in Twin Bridges, MT.
Donations may be made at GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/c01ebfbd
Service Schedule
Graveside Service
12:00 p.m.
Saturday September 4, 2021
Twin Bridges Cemetery
Twin Bridges, Montana
Service Schedule
Graveside Service
12:00 p.m.
Saturday September 4, 2021
Twin Bridges Cemetery
Twin Bridges, Montana
Debbie Bunker says
We are so sorry for your loss of TJ. No words can express how we feel. Please know that we are thinking of you Laurie, Tom and your family at this very sad time. We’re praying for you and your family.
Mollie Plummer says
We are so saddened to hear about your loss. TJ was a wonderful son, brother and Dad. We can not stop thinking about you all during this hard time. Sending all our love to your whole family and to his precious children❤️
Miranda Garding says
Jamie and family,
I’m saddened to hear about the passing of TJ. I have fond memories from our childhood of him teasing us. Always with a big smile. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family at this time!
Deb Hendrix says
Laurie, Tom and Family,
Sending you lots of love and comfort, we are so sorry for your loss. You will always miss TJ but he will always be with you in the memories you keep, the stories your family tells, the laughter you share and the love you all hold for him. May those good times and memories help heal the hurt in time.
With heartfelt sympathy … Rich & Deb Hendrix
Helen Thigpen says
Laurie, I am so terribly sorry about the loss of TJ. I’m thinking of you and your wonderful family during this difficult time.
Tabby and Shirley Hall says
Laurie and family,
Mom and I are so sorry to hear about the loss of TJ. The whole family is thinking of you all. We are sending you all our love during this difficult time.
Tabby and Shirley Hall
Cathy Ransier says
Tom and Laurie,
I am so very sorry. I am sure heaven gained a much needed soldier but my heart aches for all of you.
Rich McEwen' Margie McEwen says
To the Tom and Lauri Tobol Family and Friends’ our Hearts Prayers and Condolences; Go out to ALL; OUR LOVE AND PRAYERS are for you and your healing ‘ sincerely” Rich and Marge McEwen and families.
Janet Hedges says
Laurie, Tom and family, I’m so sorry to hear about TJ. He was always so mature and such a handsome, polite young man. Unfortunately he was taken way too early in life. Words are hard to come by but my hope is that your memories give you some comfort and peace. I’m sending prayers, hugs and good thoughts for all of you during this difficult time.
Tom & Cheryl Woodall says
Our deepest condolences for the loss of your son TJ.
Tom and Laurie, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Kellie Richetti says
TJ was one of the most genuinely kind people I’ve ever met. My heart goes out to his family, and his kids. I’m so very sorry for your loss..
Dan McGurran says
Laurie and Tom. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Gay Ann Masolo says
Laurie and Tom, we are so sorry for the loss of your son. We know your pain and send our love, hugs and prayers, Bob and Gay Ann
Jan Clinard says
Laurie,
I am so sorry to hear of your son’s untimely passing. My daughter is the same age, and I cannot imagine your pain. I wish you comfort and strength.
Blessings,
Jan
Durbin Family says
To know TJ was to love him. His big smile and goofy personality made him easy to love. TJ touched the hearts of our family as well as many others and he left us with memories that will not be forgotten. He will be greatly missed. My love and prayers go out to his family. May they find healing in this time of great sorrow.
Edwina Morrison says
Laurie and family,
I am so very sorry to hear of the heartbreaking loss of TJ. Thinking of you during this difficult time.
Pat Laakso, helena says
napa drive coffee group
Laurie , Tom and family
We are all saddened to hear the news of T.J our hearts are broken and care so much for all of you at this very difficult time
Susan Jones says
Laurie and Tom,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I cannot imagine the pain you must feel. Sending prayers your way.
Sue Jones
Pam and Glen Thomas says
Dear Laurie and family,
Glen and I are so sorry about TJ. We know how devastating it is to lose a child and our hearts go out to you. Please know we are thinking of you and that you are in our prayers. God bless you and your family.
Pam and Glen Thomas
Vickey (Kokoruda) Simonson says
Tom, Laurie and Family
Words cannot express how sorry I am for the loss of your son, TJ, and the pain that loss brings. My wish is that your memories of TJ will help you cope during this difficult time and that you will find solace and strength by leaning on family and friends; please let people help and support you. Sending my dearest thoughts to all of you.
Susan C. Witte says
Laurie and Family – I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your son, TJ.
Rogelio Moreno says
TJ rose my bus to school he was a very nice student never gave me any problems Jamie my sincere condolences sorry for your loss RIP TJ
Lisa Gadaire says
Laurie, Tom and Family,
We pray that God will give you strength to get through this very difficult time. You are in our thoughts. Sending you all lots of love.
Lisa, Seth, Brittany and Kruzer
Dusty Smith says
My heart goes out to TJ’s family. I always looked forward to seeing him in the Shop at Chemet. So sorry that he is gone.
Lisa (Helle) Benzel says
Laurie & family – I am so very sorry to hear of the heartbreaking loss of your son. I am thinking of you during this difficult time and sending comfort and strength.
Shawn Leary Perez says
Laurie and Tom,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Praying for healing in time.
Fred Ziesman says
Tom and Laurie,
I am so sorry for your loss and it happening so soon after visiting with you Tom. I have been thinking of you two since I heard. Take care as best as possible.
Daryl Cheek says
Unfathomable loss, so young and such a fine man. His children will need your strength and guidance in these days, and the times to come.. Our Lord must have needed him.. RIP
Carol & Steve Athearn says
Laurie, Tom and family,
Steve and I are so terribly sorry to hear of TJ’s death. The loss of an adult child is so very difficult and hard to understand. Cherish those two grandchildren. I’m sure Jesse and TJ are again looking down on us together. Please, when the time feels right, reach out for help. We’re always hear, same place and hope we can be support through this unexpected loss of your child. Our love and prayers go out to you all.
Sherry Kokoruda Cladouhos says
Tom, Laurie and family,
We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your son, TJ.
We are thinking of you during this difficult time.
Sherry and Tom Cladouhos
Carol Christnacht says
My heart is broken for you all. I can’t imagine losing a child. Please no that his memory will live in his kids and your families hearts. Blessings to you all.
Dave Valentine says
Tom and family,
I am sorry for your loss. I wish my words could serve as a better comfort.
Dave & Vera Englund says
Tom and Laurie,
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Robert and Smithe Docktor says
We are sorry for your lost. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time
Tracy & Lori Hunsaker says
We are so very sorry for your loss. We are a neighbor of TJ’s. We didn’t know him well at all, but our memories of him and the children are chasing their dog Daisy in the neighborhood, and working hard to put a fence up around the backyard to keep her in. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Dave and Linda Coombs says
TJ became an unforgettable person in our lives when he and our daughter dated for several yeas. He has remained in our hearts. One of the most memorable and laughable memories is TJ going to Hawaii with our family. What a goof. We had a tight connecting flight. We had multiple cases of fresh pineapple that we had to haul through the airport while running, literally, through the Honolulu airport to catch our flight. Without being asked TJ grabbed them, loaded them all on his back and took off in a full sprint toward the gate. Hysterical and very memorable to everyone that saw him. We love you and miss you TJ. You will forever remain a part of our family’s cherished memories.
Dave and Linda Coombs
Patty Anderson (Flynn) says
Tom, Laurie and family.
I am so very sorry to hear of TJ’s passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to you during this most difficult time. May you find comfort and strength in the memories that were made over the years.
I glad I was able to attend the memorial service via the internet.
Patty Anderson (Flynn)
Connie Jerome says
Jamie, Ben, Tate and family
We are so very sorry for the loss of your older brother.
May you carry fond memories in your heart always.
We will continue to keep you in our prayers.
Much Love,
Connie and Kelly
Patty Cartin says
Tom and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I am so sorry for your loss.
May you find comfort in your memories of your son during this difficult time.
Bruce says
Tom and Laurie
I am so sorry to hear of your incredibly difficult loss. I am hopeful you can find joy in all the great times you had with your beautiful son, he has provided you with some of the most memorable joys of your life. You are blessed with his children to carry on the very happiness he provided you.
I encourage you to remember your lives together and although difficult speak of him often and tell his stories.
My prayers are with you
Bruce