Thomas J. Wiacek Obituary

Thomas James "Tom" Wiacek, 74, of Elkhart, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, June 8, 2022, at his home. Tom was born on January 3, 1948, in Dearborn, MI, to the late Thaddeus J. and Irene J. (Damaradzki) Wiacek. He married his true love, Kathleen "Kate" Garbe, on October 10, 1998, in Chandler, AZ.

Surviving is his wife of 23 years, Kate; three daughters, Kimberly Jones, Kelly (Kenny) Keslinke, and Beth Garbe; son, Scott (April) Garbe; two brothers, Larry (Nancy) Wiacek and David Wiacek; sister Sandra (John) Stepzinski; 7 loving grandchildren, Samantha (Nathan) Fountain, Noah Jones, Kora Keslinke, Jacob Norris, Anna Norris, Michael Garbe, and Haley Garbe; and one great-granddaughter, Athena Fountain.

Tom was a 1966 graduate of Divine Child High School in Dearborn, MI. He went on to serve in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War from 1968 until his honorable discharge in 1973. Tom retired on July 1, 2012, as the Vice-President of Thyssen-Krupp Elevators. Tom enjoyed woodworking and solving crossword puzzles, and he was an avid golfer and meticulous gardener. His favorite adage was "It is what it is," and he enjoyed the simple things in life.

All services are private. Per his wishes, cremation was chosen under the care of Billings Funeral Home, Elkhart.

Our neighbor, Tom was a good man who was always willing to help others without being asked. He and his wife, Kate have been a blessing to us for almost 10 years. He was also a great patriot who loved his country and we thank him for his service. We are really going to miss him. May God be with Kate and her family as they go through this most difficult time.

Ron and Deb Smeltzer T Terri Morlock June 10, 2022 4:32 PM Rest in Peace Tom. Thank you for bringing so much happiness into my sisters life. You truly will be missed. T Tom Firestone June 9, 2022 9:46 AM To a Bent Oak Golfing Friend.TOM, YOU are and will be missed.. It has been a pleasure knowing YOU over the past few years. RIP, MY FRIEND. A 'Golf' gesture was posted K Kimberly & Kelly June 10, 2022 5:39 PM Thank you so much for your friendship to our father, it means a lot to us for your thoughts and kindness.