Charles Thomas “Tom” Lake, 67, of New Port Richey, Florida, passed away early on the morning of Monday July 11^th, 2022.

Tom was born on March 24^th, 1955 to Dr. Charles and Lucille Lake in St. Albans, West Virginia. He earned his degree in Dental Technology at the University of Kentucky in 1979. Throughout his esteemed career, Tom became an expert in dental technology, specializing in implantology and well-regarded for his clinical acumen and ability to effectively communicate between the lab and operating room to achieve a successful restoration. At various points in his career, Tom operated his own successful dental labs. Most recently, Tom held the position of Senior Vice President, Technology and Clinical Education at Hybridge Dental in Rochester, New York where he co-authored and earned the Hybridge XD patent.

In 1993, Tom married the love of his life, Eleftheria. They had two children, Alexander (Alexi) Charles Lake in 1995 and Anastasios (Tasso) David Lake in 1996. Tom was exceptionally proud of both of his sons. Alexi followed an early interest of Tom’s and served as a law enforcement officer. Now, he has adopted his father’s entrepreneurial spirit and operates his own construction company. His youngest son Tasso, works as a Human Capital Consultant in Washington, D.C.

Those who knew Tom referred to him as a Southern gentleman. His gentle approach and poised grace left a warm feeling in all those who crossed paths with him. He leaves a tremendous legacy in the world, his character, and relationships with those around him are what will be most remembered. Tom was always a gentleman, the ultimate professional, kind and a wonderful friend and mentor to all who knew him   He had a special ability to provide those around him comfort, peace, and guidance, often with a simple but powerful wink of an eye or with his favorite saying: “it is what it is”.

A true family man, many of Tom’s fondest memories included those spent with his family. He enjoyed travelling, gardening, shooting, but most of all sitting on his front porch in deep conversation with his sons late into the night.

Tom was proud to carry on the family tradition of being a Jack Daniels Tennessee Squire. He could often be found on the weekends grilling steaks, but never without enjoying a Jack and Coke in a tall glass with extra ice. He had a minor addiction for Amazon shopping, often waking up his wife with email notifications confirming his multiple orders. His presence had a joie de vivre twist that captivated an audience. Tom was chic, debonaire, and fun loving.  He was always dressed to the “T” with the newest fashion, and an eye for detail.

He is survived by his brother Terry Lake, sister-in-law Cody Lake (Jim Kelly), nephew Jeremey Lake, and niece Kristen Mack. Tom was also greatly loved, embraced and adored by his big fat Greek family, including his mother-in-law Anastasia Karas, sisters-in-law Anna (Pavlo Maroulis) , Eleni Karas, and brother-in-law Benny Karas (Sintra), and the apple of his eye, Goddaughter, Victoria Mahairas.

Tom was preceded in death by his mother, father, and brother David Lake.