Thomas Michael Appler, 80, of Gettysburg, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Doey’s House in Hagerstown, Maryland.
Born on October 9, 1945, in Hanover, he was the son of the late Kenneth U. and Romaine (Warehime) Appler.
Tom was born and raised in Gettysburg and graduated from Littlestown High School with the Class of 1963. Following graduation, he proudly enlisted in the United States Army, serving his country for three years while stationed in Augsburg, Germany. During his military service, he met his future wife and mother of his only child, Sieglinde (Oehmig) Appler, whom he married before returning to the United States to begin their life and raise their family.
Continuing his dedication to military service, Tom enlisted in the United States Army Reserve, where he faithfully served for 19 years before retiring with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4. While serving in the Army Reserve, he completed his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, worked briefly for Firestone before beginning a 33-year career with the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. as regional sales manager.
Tom had a passion for antique automobiles and farm equipment. He especially enjoyed restoring his prized 1957 Ford Thunderbird and proudly exhibited his collection of vintage farm tractors at local shows. Saturdays often found him at Lincoln Speedway cheering on the sprint cars. Tom also volunteered weekly at the Carroll County Food Sunday. He also treasured spending time with his beloved dog, “Beanie,” and cherished every opportunity to be with his family and friends.
In addition to Sieglinde, Tom is survived by his daughter, Rebecca M. Appler of Gettysburg; his nephews, Kenneth E. Appler, Jr. and John Geyer; and many loving extended family members and dear friends.
In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his sister, Linda Boggs; and his brother, Kenneth E. Appler.
A service celebrating Tom’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Little’s Funeral Home, 34 Maple Avenue, Littlestown, with the Rev. E. Robert Burkhart officiating. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during a viewing on Thursday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home.
Burial will follow in Rest Haven Cemetery, Hanover, where full military honors will be rendered by the Hanover Allied Veterans Honor Guard.