Dr. William Thomas "Tom" Veal Jr., 86, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025, at his home in Oxnard, California, surrounded by his wife and family.

Tom was born March 18, 1939, in Stonington, Connecticut, to his father, William Sr., and his mother, Natalie. He was the youngest of his siblings, which included his sisters Marion and Sandra. Tom graduated from Northfield Mount Hermon Academy in 1956 before attending the United States Military Academy. After graduating from West Point in 1960, he served in the Army as an officer for five years. During that time, his daughters, Laird and Lee, were born.

Transitioning to civilian life, Tom went on to earn graduate degrees from the University of Tennessee and Loma Linda University. In 1971, he opened up his orthodontic practice, where he went on to help thousands in Ventura County find their confidence and improve their health through their smiles over the span of more than 40 years.

Tom was deeply devoted to the love of his life and wife, Karen. Over their 32 years of marriage, they traveled the world while pushing each other to be their best personally, professionally, and emotionally. After Karen's Alzheimer's diagnosis in 2016, he became her full-time caregiver, embodying love, patience, and strength.

Tom was an avid traveler, sports fan, and believer in living fully. A quiet but powerful presence, he was known for his wisdom, warmth, and integrity. No matter if someone knew Tom for days or decades, he made a profound and positive impact on everyone he met through his kindness and generosity.

Tom is survived by his wife, Karen Veal, his daughter, Laird Desmond, his daughter, Lee Corso, his grandson, Martin Foley, his granddaughter, Brianna Foley, his grandson, Connor Desmond, his grandson, Gabe Desmond, his nephew, James Steacy, his nephew, Elliot Steacy, and his niece, Lynn Schambach.

A celebration of Tom's life will be held on Friday, July 11, at Spanish Hills Country Club in Camarillo. All who knew and loved him are welcome. The event will start at 5:30 with a ceremony honoring Tom starting at 6:00 p.m.

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