Tom Lane – Nearly Two Decades of Dedication

At Florida Oceanographic Society, our volunteers are the heart of our mission. This month, we’re thrilled to shine our Volunteer Spotlight on Tom Lane, a dedicated and longtime supporter whose hands-on work and passion for conservation have made a lasting impact.

Tom first got involved with Florida Oceanographic 18 years ago, lending a hand at our early Swashbuckler fundraising events alongside a volunteer group from Holiday Out. Since then, he has remained deeply committed to our mission, believing that the best way to support conservation is through action.

Whether he’s building and repairing structures, removing invasive plants, or helping restore coastal habitats, Tom’s do-it-yourself spirit and impressive hands-on skills have been invaluable. His work has helped improve and protect the environment we all cherish.

Originally from Big Rapids, Michigan, Tom attended Ferris State University’s School of Pharmacy, where he earned his degree before building a successful career in pharmacy. In 1975, he purchased Lewis Drug Store, later retiring from Walgreens in Florida in 2002.

Tom and his wife, Jacqulyn, have been married since 1963 and share a wonderful family, including three sons, eight grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

When he’s not volunteering, Tom is an avid cyclist, sailor, world traveler, and reader. His love for hands-on work started early—before and during college, he worked in a hardware store, where he developed a passion for fixing and building things. These skills have served him well, especially in his volunteer efforts at Florida Oceanographic.

For nearly two decades, Tom Lane has given his time, talent, and energy to help Florida Oceanographic thrive. His dedication is an inspiration to us all! If you see Tom around the Coastal Center, be sure to say hello and thank him for all he does.