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Thomas Piller Obituary
Thomas A. Piller, 50, of Madison, died Friday, October 30, 2009, at his home surrounded by his family.
He was born February 10, 1959, in Dixon, Illinois, the son of Lorraine Bollman Piller of Ault, Colorado, and the late Arthur Piller.
Mr. Piller was the Software Development Manager for Plow and Hearth in Madison.
He is also survived by his wife, Anne L. Piller of Madison; his children, Rebekah Rogers and her husband, Arthur, of Greensboro, North Carolina, Seth Piller and his wife, Rachel, of Charlottesville, and Joel Piller of Harrisonburg; four sisters, Annette Kress of Phoenix, Arizona, Diana Piller of Ault, Colorado, Nancy Struzinski of Pierce, Colorado, and Karen Kayl of Eaton, Colorado.
A memorial celebration of life will be held 3 p.m. Monday, November 2, 2009, at Sweely Estate Winery, 6109 Wolftown-Hood Road, Madison, Virginia. The interment will be private.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice of the Rapidan, P.O. Box 1715, Culpeper, VA 22701.
Preddy Funeral Home of Madison is in charge of arrangements.
This obituary was originally published in the Daily Progress.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Wallace's
December 1, 2010
Tom is forever in our hearts and our lives, and for that we are so blessed. The gift of his presence in our lives as an uncle and brother-in-law is a gift from God, through love, for which we are forever grateful.
"May every sunrise hold more promise,
May every sunset hold more peace."
Our unending love,
Scott and Ellen
Evan, Emily, Kayla and Julie
Aunt Barb & Uncle Tom Faulkner
October 28, 2010
Dear Anne, Bekah, Seth, & Joel...I will be lighting a candle in memory of a "one of a kind" guy. Tom will always be sadly missed but the beautiful memories will go on forever. Keep him in your hearts and lead by his example and life will be a better place for all of us to enjoy. God Bless You and all the lives Tom touched in his short stay with us.
Jeff Letofsky
March 20, 2010
Tom's family,
Very sorry to hear about Tom's passing. I was a teammate of Tom's at the University of Northern Colorado and remember him as a caring and loving person. He would go out of his way to help anyone.
We will be holding a reunion in Greeley in mid-April and will say a prayer for your family as his former teammates.
Nancy Struzinski
March 7, 2010
I miss him EVERY day! His warm smile, his gentle voice, his strong hug. I love him!
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Ivan Jareb
February 21, 2010
Anne and family,
I just learned of Tom's passing. I worked with him for a number of years in Charlottesville. He was among the most thoughtful, kind, and principled individuals I have ever known. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
February 11, 2010
Still missing Tom everyday. Just got a picture in the mail of Tom and my two cousins from this summer. Boy does he look handsome. Of course we look a lot alike because he's my brother.
Karen
February 10, 2010
Prayers, love and hugs on Tom's birthday. I'm so grateful to be his sister-in-law. Karen
Mary (Lachenmayer) Kelso
November 30, 2009
Anne,
I have just recently learned of Tom's passing. I hope you tuck all the wonderful memories of your lives together in your heart so they can bring comfort in your grief. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
November 25, 2009
My Husband John and I were sad to hear of your family's recent loss. Tom was such a thoughtful person.
One snowy afternoon he and I had both waited a little too late to leave work. Oak Park Road was so bad that Tom decided to park his car at Puryear's. When I drove by Tom came out to my car. As he explained that one of you were coming to pick him up, he took his arm and cleaned off the snow from my hood and windshield.
Helping other was such a natural for Tom.
John and Janice Peden
Power Dam Road
Madison, VA
Jeff Tarter
November 16, 2009
I had the pleasure of playing baseball at UNC with Tom and even a greater pleasure in knowing him for the short time that I did. May he rest in Peace.
Doug Banning
November 12, 2009
I'm so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. I played with Tom at UNC, and have always admired the way he carried himself. Tom was a leader, he followed his convictions. He didn't dwell on the negatives...I'll never forget coming home from a game against Air Force..Tom just had a long hitting streak ended, and rather then sulk, he told me he was all ready thinking about his Physics homework! Tom had an infectious, positive attitude, and I consider myself blessed to have had a chance to know him.
R.I.P my friend
Gene Mondragon
November 12, 2009
My deepest condolenes to the Piller family. I was very for fortunate to know Tom, while we played baseball at UNC. Tom was always such a giving man. A man, that was a joy to be around. A man that worked hard and gave it his all. I am so thankful that our paths crossed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Barb & Tom Faulkner
November 12, 2009
"To have known him is to love him"... Tom left a legacy like no other. Anne, Bekah, Seth & Joel, you were his life and love. We have all been blessed the day Anne brought Tom into our family and I don't believe there was ever a doubt that Tom was the one for Anne. Love~~~ Aunt Barb & Uncle Tom
Mark Zack
November 9, 2009
I met Tom in the 5th grade in Ault, Colorado, and we had a wonderful friendship throughout school and throughout life. Tom was an extremely strong man, physically and mentally, who led by example, with a gentle nature, and a beaming smile, full of endless energy. I looked up to Tom as a friend, and as an example of how life should be lived. Tom lifted everyone's spirit with his good natured personality, and his extremely kind and forgiving heart. I will always smile when I think of Tom, and I will smile when I remember how he could throw a 16 pound bowling ball so fast, or how he could crush a baseball with such power, and be so humble - we watched in awe. Tom will continue to make us smile, and his accomplishments will never be forgotten, and he will continue to lead us by the examples he set.
Denise Van Why
November 9, 2009
I knew Tom in Highland High School and it was a priviledge to know him. He was dedicated to education and sports. Just know that his spirit of love will remain and will always be in your hearts. Keep your heart open to the love that can continue from heaven.
Cortney Kayl
November 6, 2009
It was such a privelage to know Tom. I have always admired your family. So positive, honest and passionate. I will always remember his laugh and smile. I am thankful for the great times we have shared and will miss him dearly. Your family is in my thoughts and heart. Continue to be strong and positive. I trust he is in a good place and wants to look down on you living your lives with strength and happiness.
I look forward to seeing you again soon. Love,
Chuck & Janelle Bish
November 5, 2009
You all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Karen Kayl's inlaws
November 5, 2009
"...pour out your hearts to Him,
for God is our refuge." Ps. 62:8
I count it a privilege to have known Tom in his youth. He was a very kind, caring human being filled with abounding talent.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all,
Julie Klor Ballard
Highland High School Classmate
Bill Whicker
November 5, 2009
Anne and Family,
I was fortunate enough to have been a classmate of Tom's as we were both growing up in Colorado. My memories of him are those of a principled and disciplined young man whose faith never wavered. He poured himself into the things that were most important to him and never let the distractions or pressures of others guide him away from his beliefs. I came to understand the strength of Tom and his convictions as I grew into an adult and went into the field of educating teenagers. Tom truly was an amazing young man. I have shared the old photos and programs of the Highland teams Tom and I were on as well as the great stories of a state championship that was (and one that wasn't) with my 3 sons. The example that Tom sets is one that I hope they can copy. Please know that my family's thoughts and prayers are with you and yours.
Vicki (Specht) Wertz
November 5, 2009
Tom will be missed greatly and remembered by both old friends and new. He was a kind and wonderful person that gave warm memories to all. I am so sorry for the loss to his family and my dear friend, his sister, Karen.
Karen Kayl
November 5, 2009
I will miss EVERYTHING about my big brother. He was the BEST. I'm very glad he gave us Anne, Rebekah, Seth, and Joel. I love you guys.
Jared
November 5, 2009
Anne, Becka, Seth and Joel,
Uncle Tom was one of the greatest men I ever knew. He will live on in our hearts and our actions as we should all try to be a little more like Uncle Tom. He is an inspiration.
His voice and smile and loving nature echoed across the mountains and valleys of Virginia on Monday. His presence reflected in the hundreds of people who came to attend a celebration of Toms life and the gift that he brought to each of us.
The Piller family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Live Like Tom.
Meghan Nolan
November 5, 2009
Tom was a wonderful man and he will be remembered by everyone who had the honor and pleasure of knowing him. I will always remember how kind and warm a person he was, and will always remember his smiling face.
Angela Kelchner Good
November 5, 2009
Anne, Seth, Joel & Bekka,
One of the things I remember most about my time at CCS, was Tom (Mr. Piller). He was a wonderful man, always would point to his smile to get us to smile, always made sure we sang on tune, always put our needs first. As an adult now, I see how very proud he was of his family and how he always served his Lord. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you during this time.
November 4, 2009
I will miss the hugs, his smile, and his laugh.
gail delran NJ
Rachel
November 4, 2009
Pillers - I LOVE YOU GUYS <3 <3 <3
forever and ever and ever.
i will miss Tom's hugs <3
Mark Farmer
November 3, 2009
Anne, Seth, Bekka and Joel. Your husband and father was a great man and friend. St Thomas will be remembered for his wonderful Christian influence and spirit forever. God bless you all and we're here for you.
Aaron Perryman
November 3, 2009
Anne, Becca, Seth, and Joel,
You all are in my prayers. I enjoyed all the times I was around Tom. I especially remember youth baseball when I was younger and Tom's presence there. He was so passionate about baseball and just fun to be around, able to make you smile all the time.
Mike Luthi
November 3, 2009
Anne,
My deepest sympathies to you and your family. Tom will certainly be missed by all.
Michael Andersen
November 3, 2009
Anne, Rebekah, Seth and Joel,
I have known Tom since 6th grade (we met in band) and I considered him a good friend.
In high school, he was an excellent athlete, musician and student.
Even though we lost touch in the last few years, I was able to call Tom and visit with him in the last couple weeks of his life.
All of you were fortunate to have a good husband/father as Tom.
I know he was looking forward to being in heaven, and in no more pain.
He will be missed.
Don Piller
November 3, 2009
Anne:
Our condolences to you and your family. Tommy will be missed by all, especially the large Piller family back in Illinois. I remember him as a small boy with constant smiles, may his time with the Lord continue his smiles.
Tabitha Utz
November 2, 2009
Today's celebration of life was a wonderful reminder of the love that Tom had for Anne and the children. I am so thankful to have know Tom and grateful for the impact that he made in my life. Ps. 40:5
Bill Ingram
November 2, 2009
My sincere condolences to everyone in the Piller family. Tom was a great man and respected by all, I will miss his visits to the office in NY.
May God hold him in the palm of his hand.
Terri Rapine
November 2, 2009
Tom,
It was my pleasure to work with you at Plow and Hearth. Until we meet again, may God Hold you in the palm of his hand.
Those we love don't go away,
They walk beside us every day!
Beth (Breeden) Kilgore
November 2, 2009
I have many wonderful memories of Tom or "Mr. Piller" as we called him as children at Thoroughfare. He also came to my parents home in Reva, VA to tutor my older brother (Daniel) and sister (Renea) in math and Biology. You are all in my prayers.
Mohammed Ahmed
November 2, 2009
Tom ,
Everybody liked you.
You were a kind hearted man.
Regards
Mohammed
ETC
November 2, 2009
Anne, Becca, Seth and Joel - Our hearts go out in deepest sympathy to all of you. What a wonderful dad, husband and friend Tom was! May the dear Lord give you all the grace and stength to get through these tough days, as He did during his illness. In His Love - Beth Burns and family.
Meredith Matthews Christensen
November 2, 2009
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. He was one of my favorite teachers during my time at CCS. He will be greatly missed but I am thankful we will get to see him again someday! My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.
Hagazi Kebede
November 2, 2009
Dear Tom's Family
Although words cannot begin to ease the pain of your sorrow, please know that we are praying that the Lord will surround you with His love and that His presence will fill you with His peace. My family joined the CM&A mostly because of Tom, and working as an Elder with Tom was one of the highlights of my life and will always cherish those fellowship days. He was humble, kind and was willing to offer a listening ear at all times.
Kourtney Dudley-Garr`
November 2, 2009
I worked with Tom at P&H. He was always so kind. Please know that I am praying for you and your family!
Bill Seal
November 2, 2009
Anne, I am sorry to hear about your loss. Tom was such a kind,caring person! May God comfort you in the coming days and future. God Bless you & family!
Brian Phelps
November 2, 2009
Anne,
I am so very sorry to hear of Tom's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Temple Murray
November 2, 2009
Anne and family,
We am sending hugs your way and hold each of you in prayer and close to our hearts. WE do know one thing; this world is a better place for the kindness that Tom shared. Tom just always could place a smile on your face when he walked by. One day, we have the hope of meeting again for a grand reunion. And yes, we can bet, Tom will be there to welcome us with a smile.
Jimmy, Temple and Sara Beth Murray
November 1, 2009
Anne & Family
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Robin Clark
Joel Barfoot
November 1, 2009
I have known Tom (or as most of us called him ) Tommy since 5th grade. We were the new kids at Highland Elementary School and friends all the way through high school. Tommy was the most principled person I ever knew. What he believed in and what he cared about could not be shaken. He loved life and he loved sports. He was such an outstanding athlete and a true baseball star. Despite being light years better than anyone else on our team, he was the model of modesty and teamwork. In our later years we reconnected on the internet and a group of 5 Highland friends have kept in touch since. I know that he was so proud of his family and loved them deeply. I know you will miss him so much as will we. We all know that he is wrapped in God's arms right now and no longer in pain. While we miss him, we can at least smile with the thought of his peace and joy and freedom from his recent struggles. You are all in our prayers.
Keith Kennedy
November 1, 2009
I, along with several high school classmates of Tom's. want Anne, Rebekah, Seth and Joel to know how much we all thought of Tom, and how grateful we are to have had such a fine man be an important part of our lives. You are all in our thoughts and prayers,
Chester & Priscilla Mummau & family
November 1, 2009
We were saddened to hear of your loss. Please accept our condolences and sympathies. Our thoughts are with you.
Sandy Berry-Lapp
November 1, 2009
I wanted to write and tell you how sorry I am for the loss of your husband and dad. Tom is a great man and I am so grateful that we will see him again one day. The world is less bright without him in it. My heart goes out to your entire family. God keep you and comfort you.
Sandy
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