Thomas Proulx

Thomas J. Proulx, 76, of Tupper Lake, New York, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on September 17, 2026.

Born on January 1, 1950, in Plattsburgh, NY, Tom was a lifelong resident who dedicated his life to service, family, and community. In 1969, he proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, serving his country honorably for four years. The discipline, integrity, and commitment he developed during his military service remained guiding principles throughout his life.

Following his discharge from the Navy, Tom attended North Country Community College, where he earned a degree in Criminal Justice. He then began a distinguished career with the Tupper Lake Police Department. Over the course of his career, he served the residents of Tupper Lake with professionalism, fairness, and dedication, rising through the ranks to become Assistant Chief. After many years of service to his community, he retired in 1999.

In 1971, Tom married his high school sweetheart, Connie L. Rabatoy, beginning a loving partnership that would span more than five decades. Together, they built a life centered on family, friendship, and devotion to their community. Their marriage was blessed with two children, Stacey and Eric, who were a constant source of pride and joy.

Tom was known for his strong work ethic, generous spirit, and unwavering commitment to helping others. He was a local hockey coach for over 20 years. His impact on the community extended far beyond his law enforcement career.

One of Tom's proudest accomplishments was his leadership role in the development of the Tupper Lake Civic Center. As an early advocate and president of the civic center organization, he helped spearhead fundraising and construction efforts that turned a community dream into a lasting reality. His dedication and vision helped create a facility that has served generations of local families, athletes, and community members. He remained closely associated with the civic center throughout his life and took great pride in seeing it thrive.

Beyond his many accomplishments, Tom found his greatest happiness in the company of family and friends. He enjoyed going out to dinner with loved ones, sharing stories, laughter, and creating lasting memories around the table. Tom and Connie looked forward to spending their winters in Florida, where they enjoyed the warmth, relaxation, and friendships they made over the years. One of the highlights of every year was hosting their annual Christmas party, a cherished tradition that brought family and friends together and reflected Tom’s generous and welcoming spirit.
An avid golfer, Tom treasured the countless rounds he played with his golf buddies, Butch, Bozo, Bill, Ron, and many others. Whether on the golf course, at a family gathering, or sharing a meal with friends, Tom valued the relationships he built throughout his life.
Among all his interests, one of Tom’s favorite pastimes was spending time at the Tupper Lake Civic Center. There, he took immense pride and joy in watching children and young adults of all ages play hockey, seeing firsthand how the arena had become a gathering place for the community and a source of opportunities and memories for generations of families.

Tom will be remembered for his kindness, leadership, sense of community, and willingness to lend a helping hand whenever needed. Whether serving his country, protecting his hometown as a police officer, helping build community institutions, or spending time with family and friends, he left a lasting mark on the lives of those around him.

Tom was predeceased by his parents, Rolland “Tapsy” and Doris Proulx, and by his brothers, Cordell, Steven and Rolland Jr. Proulx.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Connie Proulx; his son, Eric Proulx and his companion, Bridgette LaPierre; his daughter, Stacey DeGrace and her husband, Bob DeGrace; his sister and her husband Cathy and Marc Staves and his sister in law and her husband, Jane and Paul Quinn.

He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Skyler Proulx, Kiersten LaLonde and her husband Craig, Denver Proulx, Taylor Proulx, Maddison Proulx, Alexis DeGrace, and Avri DeGrace.

Tom was especially proud of his role as a great-grandfather and is survived by his great-grandchildren, Skylinn Proulx, Myla LaLonde, Edie LaLonde, Chloe Sebera, Colton Sebera and Allena Parmeter all of whom brought immense joy to his life.

He also leaves behind extended family members, many dear friends, former colleagues, and a grateful community that benefited from his years of service, leadership, and dedication.

His legacy of service, compassion, and commitment to Tupper Lake will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Tom will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Per the family’s request, there will be no public calling hours. The family encourages everyone to attend the Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00PM on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 at St. Alphonsus Church, with burial to follow at St. Alphonsus Cemetery. A gathering will be held at the VFW immediately following the burial.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Tupper Lake Hockey Association in Tom’s memory.