Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Thomas Van Hengel Obituary
San Diego, CA - Thomas Michael Van Hengel, (Tommy Thompson), 62 of San Diego, California passed away on his boat at Cabrillo Isle Marina on Saturday, November 9, 2019. Tommy was born June 4, 1957 in Kansas City, KS to John and Beverlee Van Hengel. He graduated from Shawnee Mission East High School and attended Kansas University. He moved to Scottsdale, Arizona and eventually moved to San Diego, California. He worked as a commercial diver for a period and then moved on to becoming an independent buyer and seller of cars, houses, and boats. He was a very gregarious person who made friends everywhere he went. He is survived by his Mother, Beverlee Thompson of Overland Park, KS, Brothers John Van Hengel of Overland Park, KS, and David Thompson of Austin, TX, Step Brothers Rick (Linda) Thompson of Leawood, KS, and John (Michele) Thompson of Breckenridge, CO, and step Sister Jill (Tom) Harbrecht of San Diego, CA. To accommodate his many friends there will be two celebrations of life. One at the Scottsdale Bible church, 7601 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale, AZ November 30 at 1:00 pm followed by a gathering at Handlebar J. A second one will be held at the Clubhouse at the Tuileries, 10801 Glenwood St. Overland Park, KS December 7th at 3:00 pm.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Van Hengel
4 Entries
November 30, 2019
Tommy, "Big T" & I, "Little T" became friends at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina when he became a member. He was like a real brother to me and always brought me snacks. He is truly a one of a kind man and there's a void in my heart that will never be filled again! With so much love, Trina a.k.a. Little T
Rest in Peace Dear Friend!
Capt. Ken Guyer
November 29, 2019
Met Tommy when I managed the Marriott Marina and he helped out with several vessels we needed to get rid of. Man of his word was my first impression. Later we communicated on FaceBook and found we shared much in the way of common ground on many issues of the day. We had mutual respect for each other and I considered Tommy a good friend. Fair winds and following seas my friend. May you rest in peace.
Gino DeSico
November 28, 2019
We all have many types of friends,
And in our life they come and go.
But if we can understand their roles,
Then it can be easier to let some go.
Some friends are there for you,
At a time when you are in dire need.
They have come into life for a reason,
Giving you what you require indeed.
But when this reason is resolved,
It often becomes time to part,
Because when the reason is gone,
Both may want a fresh new start.
Other friends are there for a season,
To laugh with and have lots of fun.
But just as seasons come to an end,
Sometimes these friendships are done.
Some people are very fortunate,
To have very special lifetime friends.
Who will remain in their life forever,
And that is a friendship that never ends.
I am lucky and have many lifetime friends,
Who came into my life for a reason.
We've enjoyed many laughs and shed tears,
But they stayed long after a season.
Gino DeSico
November 28, 2019
We all have many types of friends,
And in our life they come and go.
But if we can understand their roles,
Then it can be easier to let some go.
Some friends are there for you,
At a time when you are in dire need.
They have come into life for a reason,
Giving you what you require indeed.
But when this reason is resolved,
It often becomes time to part,
Because when the reason is gone,
Both may want a fresh new start.
Other friends are there for a season,
To laugh with and have lots of fun.
But just as seasons come to an end,
Sometimes these friendships are done.
Some people are very fortunate,
To have very special lifetime friends.
Who will remain in their life forever,
And that is a friendship that never ends.
I am lucky and have many lifetime friends,
Who came into my life for a reason.
We've enjoyed many laughs and shed tears,
But they stayed long after a season.
Tommy was a friend to soo many and his smile and kindness will be missed!
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results
Make a Donation
in Thomas Van Hengel's name
Memorial Events
for Thomas Van Hengel
How to support Thomas's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Thomas Van Hengel's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
