August 5, 2021, 56, Goldsboro –
Thomas Dean “Tom” Meitler, II, 56, passed away on Thursday, August 5, 2021, at Signature Health Care in Kinston after a lengthy illness.
Tom was born in Lansing, Michigan on May 24, 1965 to Thomas and Sandra Meitler of Michigan. He lived his dream of serving as a crew chief with the United States Air Force. Tom will always be remembered for his witty sense of humor, his love of shenanigans, and his patriotism. He protected his country and her allies proudly. Tom’s valor and skill were recognized with numerous decorations. He retired after 20 years of service to his country as Master Sergeant.
After his military career, Tom continued to work as a police officer, first in Rocky Mount and later with the Goldsboro Police Department. He retired from his police duties in May of 2020. Serving as a police officer allowed Tom to showcase his desire to serve and help others. He would give anything he had to anyone who needed it, which is something he learned from his mom and dad.
Tom was caring, big-hearted, generous, fun-loving, and always ready for an adventure. He would want to be remembered as a loving husband, a devoted father and son, a great brother and uncle, and someone who other people could rely on for help when they needed it.
One of Tom’s proudest accomplishments was that of being a father. Jacob was born in Michigan while Tom and Annette were stationed at K. I. Sawyer AFB and Nicholas was born in North Dakota while Tom was serving at Minot AFB. Tom has always enjoyed a good laugh with his sons and loved them with all of his heart. He was so incredibly proud of his boys and all of their accomplishments.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 8, 2021 from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home. A service to celebrate Tom’s life will be held on Monday, August 9, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. in the chapel of Seymour Funeral Home. Interment will be at 12 noon in the Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery.
He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by many, including the following family members: his wife of 29 years, Annette Meitler; sons, Jacob Meitler and wife Burgandi, stationed in Germany and Nicholas Meitler (Kelly); and his beloved grandson, Arthur Meitler. He is also survived by his parents, Thomas and Sandra Meitler; brother, Lee Meitler and wife Dawn; sisters, Heather Wilcox and husband Marc and Jacqulyn Morris and husband Matt; father-in-law, Ronald Arnesen (Jennie); sisters-in-law and brothers-in law, Ronald and Carol Arnesen, Roger and Denise Arnesen, Katrina and Derek Rainey, Heather Russman, and Betsy and Ted Platte; and numerous nieces and nephews who he loved very much. He was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Kitty Arnesen.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be given in his memory to the Wounded Warrior Project or a charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
