TOM VINCENT

TOM VINCENT Tom Vincent died peacefully at age 81, just ten weeks after the passing of his beloved wife, Cookie. He was well known for being a farmer and veterinarian, but during his life he was also a butcher, meat inspector, dairy farmer, cowboy, liquor store clerk and consultant among other occupations. Tom was a consummate servant to the community and the church. He served many years as the Executive Director of the Kansas Veterinary Medical Association, after having served as a board member. He supported the Boy Scouts of America on a Unit, District, and National level - and he completed or instructed Woodbadge at least 11 times. He was active in Shriners, was a member of the York Rite and was a Master Mason with Freemason Emerald Lodge 289. He was also a long-time supporter of the Gideon's, the NRA, high school band and wrestling and the Boot Hill Theatre. Tom was recognized by a Lakin, KS Proclamation for "Tom Vincent Day" for his many years of work as a board member for the Kearny County Hospital. Tom solved problems and "got stuff done". He was a natural "MacGyver", so much so that this became a nickname used by many of those who worked with him. Tom was always learning, thinking, reading, and creating. Learning to be an amateur pilot, play various instruments, become a lay pastor, learn various facets of construction and a variety of small hobbies. He was also an international traveler, with Cookie at his side. One of Tom's last endeavors was to learn how to play the piano before he turned 80 - being a pragmatist, an optimist, and also an occasional procrastinator, Tom set out on the learning piano journey at age 70. :) He loved his family, friends, professions, hobbies, and passions - but his wife Cookie was always first. Tom and Cookie had been inseparable sweethearts since childhood. As they had been together in life, Tom and Cookie planned for a joint funeral service for all friends and family, followed by a scattering ceremony for direct family. Services will be held in Lakin, KS in early 2024. Information will be posted when finalized. Tom leaves behind a daughter and two sons, Jamie (and spouse Juergen), Jerry (and spouse Oranuch) and Doug (and spouse Traci). Tom also leaves behind six grandchildren - Thomas, Sarah, Mali, John, Nick and Doug. Tom had many honorary children, notably among them are Taylor, Shane and John. Tom also leaves behind two siblings and a sister-in-law - Dave, Bob and Sheryl. He was preceded in death by the love of his life - Cookie, his brother Bill and his parents, Todd and Flo Vincent. The family would like to give special thanks to the caring staff and healthcare professionals of the High Plains Retirement Village and the Kearny County Hospital of Lakin, KS. Instead of flowers or cards, please give generously to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Mid-America Chapter //nationalmssociety.org/chapters/ksg, the Alzheimer's Association act.alz.org or the American Cancer Society cancer.org