Adam Thomas “Tom” Kavlick, 80, of Pevely died July 11, 2025. Born May 6, 1945, in Camden, N.J., Mr. Kavlick spent most of his youth in New Jersey until age 15, when he moved to Grover, Colo., to help with his uncle’s farm. He was a 1963 Grover High School graduate. After high school, he moved to Festus, where he met his first wife, Iva. They were married on Sept. 5, 1965, and raised two sons. He worked at United Nuclear and later Monsanto while also coaching numerous boys’ sports teams. He was a Missouri MSHAA referee for 28 years. He also was instrumental in championing the booster club at Festus High School, becoming the first booster club president. Once his sons moved out, he and Iva began golfing together. They traveled extensively throughout the U.S. and beyond to “hit the links” and visit the boys wherever they were living. He and Iva spent 37 years together before she died of cancer.
Mr. Kavlick met Connie, and the couple were married on April 28, 2006. With his marriage to Connie, he gained two daughters and more grandkids. He enjoyed attending their sporting events.
He was known for his love of talking, White Castle coffee, M&M’s, cookies and classic rock music. He loved spending time with his numerous golf groups, his card group and, especially, his large family. He will be remembered for his long hugs and his storytelling.
He is survived by his second wife: Connie (Griwach) Kavlick of Pevely; four children: Col. Adam Bryon (Kate) Kavlick of Chesterfield, Christopher (Stephanie) Kavlick of Stilwell, Kan., Christy (Judson) Johnson of Jenks, Okla., and Jennifer Griwach of Festus; eight grandchildren: Thaine (Ali) Kavlick, Clayton Kavlick, A.J. Kavlick, Ava Johnson, Liam Heizer, Xander Heizer, William Kavlick and Robin Kavlick; three sisters: Barb Boyer, Chrissy Kavlick and Lori Meyer; and many other family members and friends.
A celebration of life is scheduled from 1-7 p.m. Thursday, August 7, at the Festus-Crystal City Elks Lodge 1721, 4 Elks Club. Memorials may be made to the Festus Athletics Booster Club, 501 Westwind Dr., Festus, 63028. Arrangements are under the direction of Mahn Twin City Chapel.