Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Thomas Spackman Obituary
Thomas Earl Spackman, 100, of Monticello, died at 5:00 am, Monday, November 11, 2013 at White Oak Health Campus. He was the son of Earl W. Spackman who founded Ideal Beach in 1926. He was born in Highland Park, Michigan and the family later moved to Indianapolis where Tom graduated from Shortridge High School. He was a life time member of Indiana University Emeritus Club earning a B.S. degree in Business in 1937. On July 13, 1937 he married the former Helen F. Quackenbush in Crown Point, Indiana and she preceded him in death on July 7, 1993. He became CEO of Ideal Beach in 1945 and later changed the name from Ideal Beach to Indiana Beach "Riviera of the Midwest" in 1952. Mr. Spackman was a member of Monticello Christian Church, Chamber of Commerce, and served on the first White County Hospital Foundation.
Surviving are two sons, Thomas E. Spackman (Dr. Carol Bridges, MD) of Newbury Park, California, James W. (Patty) Spackman of Cornville, Arizonia; three daughters, Joy A. Boomershine (Richard) Bailey, Ruth C. (James) Davis, and Cathy J.(Steven) Juntgen of Monticello; fourteen grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren.
Tom Spackman , as Chief Executive Officer of Indiana Beach Amusement and Camp Resort, worked to significantly improve the industry's status and reputation regionally, nationally, and internationally. Indiana Beach Amusement and Camp Resort originally opened nearly 86 years ago in its current location as a swimming and boating area. In 2008, when sold, it had 28 adult rides, nine children's rides, a fun house, shops, miniature golf, a water park, swimming, restaurants and resort accommodations. It was known throughout the Midwest as a place where families go to enjoy good clean family fun. In a resolution in 2004, the State of Indiana recognized Mr. Spackman's contributions to the state acknowledging among other things that largely due to the efforts of Tom Spackman, Sr. the world knows that "There's more than corn in Indiana." He was a true entrepreneur extraordinaire.
Some of Tom's state and national honors received were: Sagamore of the Wabash on the 75th Indiana Beach Anniversary year by Gov. Frank O'Bannon, 2003 Meritorious Service Award by International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, 2004 State of Indiana Restaurant and Hospitality Association Hall of Fame, recipient of the Monticello Chamber of Commerce Lakes Award, winner of 14 Brass Ring awards in radio and television for originality, creativity, and excellence in marketing, advertising, and promotional campaigns, winner of the State of Indiana "50 year" Small Business Award, Monticello Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Achievement Award, won NAPPB'S (now known as IAAPA) promotion of the year in 1950 with the "Man Living under Water" and again in 1986 with "There's More than Corn in Indiana".
Mr. Spackman's achievements include building Indiana Beach Amusement Resort into a major regional summer resort, building Indiana Beach Campground Resort and Jellystone Camp Resort, designing six of Indiana Beach's amusement attractions (Sky Ride, Shafer Queen, Mystery Mansion, Dr. Frankenstein's Castle, Antique Auto, and Superstition Mountain). Bill Luse Sr. did the construction for all of these rides except for the Antique Auto Track. Along with Bill Koch of Holiday World, Tom founded the Indiana Travel and Tourism Association which later became the Indiana Department of Tourism. Tom was Director from 1983-1989, he created and funded the Visitor's Guide and Lake Guide to promote the Monticello tourist industry, pioneered the first Lake Shafer cleanup with the installation of a sewage treatment facility, 1975 President of International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), he donated land and worked to make North 6th Street a reality, and in 1990 he was the Co-Chair with Dr. Nolan Hibner of the White County Memorial Hospital Capitol Campaign that raised more than $900,000 for a new addition to the hospital.
Visitation will be from 3pm - 8pm, Thursday, November 14, 2013 at Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home, 202 S. Illinois Street, Monticello, Indiana and also one hour prior to services at the church Friday, November 15, 2013.
Funeral Services will be at 1:30pm, Friday, at Monticello Christian Church, 1002 Airport Road, Monticello, Indiana with Rev. Chris Dodson officiating.
Burial will follow at Riverview I.O.O.F Cemetery for those who are able to attend, otherwise friends are encouraged to proceed to the Sportsman Annex for a time of fellowship and hors d'oeuvres.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are encouraged to be given to the White County Community Foundation to benefit the White County Youth Chamber Fund or to the Monticello-Union Township Public Library Operating Fund. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
You may sign the online guest book at www.springerfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Spackman
Treva Brashears
January 6, 2014
While in college I worked as Mr. Spackman's secretary for one summer. I remember him as a very efficient, creative and kind man. My husband Chuck and I met at Indiana Beach in the summer of 1964 when he worked at the Boardwalk. We have been married for 47 years so there must have been some magic in that place. While in high school, I vacationed there every summer with a group of girls. We lived in a rural area of southern Indiana and thought that Indiana Beach was such an exciting place to visit. In my opinion Mr. Spackman built the "magic kingdom" in Indiana. Thoughts and prayers to the family for your loss.
Chuck and Treva (Davis) Brashears
Elden and Mary Lee Gutwein
November 18, 2013
Mr. Spackman was good man that truly gave to others. He and Indiana Beach have fans all over the Midwest. We were glad to have been able to know him. God Bless your family and Legacy.
John Wengrow
November 16, 2013
My condolences go out to the Spackman family during this time of great loss. Growing up going to Indiana Beach and getting to speak to Mr. Spackman during each and every visit has truly been one of the most priceless gifts I could have ever experienced. I learned a great deal that has proven useful in every day life and will continue to do so. He always answered every question I asked and I asked plenty. Thoughts and prayers especially to Ruth and her family. You are all wonderful people and I feel blessed to know all of you! The memories will live in our hearts forever!
Frank and Sallie Blaser
November 16, 2013
I've known Tom since 1978, when I acquired Lakewood Marina. At that time, we were furnishing ski boats for Tom's ski show at Indiana Beach. We communicated on a regular basis over the years. He would often inquire how well our business was doing. He was always concerned about the resorts and local businesses. Tom was a very gentle and remarkable man. It was a privilege and pleasure to know him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Kelsi Garrison
November 15, 2013
My college tuition was paid for by working summers at the Skyroom at Indiana Beach. I am forever grateful to the Davis/Spackman family for the job. Indiana Beach was a huge part of my life growing up in Monticello. Prayers to the Spackman family--you have touched so many people.
Linda (Finnell) Hayes
November 15, 2013
My condolences to the Spackman family on behalf of Joy's Class of '59. Most of us frequented the Beach in the 50s and 60s. I was also there as an employee for 6 years, and that income helped me through my high school and college years. All this because Mr. Spackman kept the beach open so over the years we locals could not only meet friends there, but we could also have a job watching others have a fun-filled day with their families and friends. May he rest in peace and may the family's wonderful memories help them through this difficult time.
Echo (Baker) Scott
November 15, 2013
So sorry for your loss.I know your memories will help you though this sad time
Stephen Smith
November 15, 2013
He never forgot anyone who helped him and added something new to Indiana Beach every year, believing rightly that if a business did not grow, it would die. He was a wise and worthy man and a good friend. My sympathy goes out to his family.
Mary McDougle Schuth
November 14, 2013
My sympathy goes to the Spackman family. So many of the family members were important to my brother John and me while we were growing up in Monticello. The Beach was what made Monticello so unique, and introduced positive experiences that were life changing.
S.I. Drake, Lt/IPD (Ret)
November 14, 2013
On behalf of the Société de Police - IPD Adam & Edward, our condolences to Chris Boomershine and family on the passing of his grandfather.
May knowing you're in the hearts and thoughts of others help you and yours
through this time of sorrow.
S. I. Drake, Lt/IPD (Ret)
November 14, 2013
On behalf of the Société de Police - IPD Adam & Edward, our condolences to Chris Boomershine and family on the passing of his grandfather.
May knowing you're in the hearts and thoughts of others help you and yours
through this time of sorrow.
Richard & Bella Douglass
November 14, 2013
So sorry for your loss Always enjoyed going to Indiana Beach and seeing Tom. Prayers are with you.
Mary Whiteman
November 14, 2013
Rest In Peace.. I will miss you I spent many summers at your theme park with my mom and siblings and cousins. We always had lots of fun. I even had taken my boys and friends there. You will be missed..
Terry & Jean Cunningham
November 14, 2013
We both loved working at Indiana Beach. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your family. Your loss is felt by many. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love,
Jean and Terry
Donna Goetz
November 14, 2013
My deepest sympathy, especially to Ruth and Joy, for your loss. What a wonderful legacy he left!
Jim & Joni (Lea) Phelps
November 14, 2013
Our deepest sympathies to the Tom Spackman Family. We had so much fun working at Indiana Beach during High School & College summers. We loved listening to Mr. Spackman's stories. He always told us that at Indiana Beach he sold "romance". And we believed him. He will be dearly missed. You all remain in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time.
Elta Marquez
November 14, 2013
Dear Ruth & all of the Davis & Spackman family,
So sorry for your loss, but was happy to read that he got to live to be 100! He was always such a powerful presence to be around, and was a very inspiring leader. Thanks to his committment to the beach, many of us will get to keep priceless memories from there forever. Glad so many generations got to enjoy working, vacationing, and just having fun there. No matter how old, there was always something fun for you to do. Mr. Spackman's legacy will live forever in our hearts.
Jim Alspaugh
November 14, 2013
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Nancy Wallace Showalter
November 14, 2013
To the Spackman Family,
My brother, Dave Wallace, and I both worked at the hotel....Dave in 1961/62 and I in 1962 only. I have great memories of the families, the friends I made and the fun times at "the beach" plus working for the Spackman family. My condolences to you for your loss of an extrememly creative man. Fondly, Nancy Wallace Showalter
Art & Ruth Allison
November 14, 2013
Through the years, how many have given thought, to what Monticello and the entire area would have been without "The Beach", and Tom Spackman. May he rest in peace.
John Byrd
November 14, 2013
Please accept my sincere condolences at this time and know that I share your sadness with Tom's passing. When I played at the Skyroom for many years, it was so nice to watch Tom dance to my music and especially "Could I Have This Dance" which he always requested when I played music as a soloist or with Tom Claypool. I will always remember his kindness and the respect he gave me. God Bless him and may he rest in peace. Knowing him personally is a blessing to me.
John Byrd.
Carolyn Brown Cason
November 14, 2013
Dear Joy and Spackman Family,
Your Dad/Grandfather was a wonderful person, I enjoyed working for him one summer at the Sky Room. He will be missed. My sincere condolences to all of you.
Bruce Cassi
November 13, 2013
Dear Spackman Family,
On behalf of myself, the Board of Directors and our members across the globe, please accept our deepest sympathies on the loss of Tom Spackman Sr. We truly enjoyed our events at Indiana Beach and loved hearing Mr. Spackman tell us about his early life at the park.
Sincerely,
Bruce R Cassi, Director
National Amusement Park Historical Association
Caine Donis
November 13, 2013
If it weren't for Mr. Spackman, we would have never had the chance to experience the wonder that is Indiana Beach. Here's to hoping his dream can stay alive for years to come, and for many others to enjoy as well.
Dave Wynn
November 13, 2013
Great times and memories of working Indiana Beach for 30 summers. When Tom would see me return each season, he shook my hand and welcomed me back. Thanks, Tom, for making me a part of the IB family!
Floyd/Sue Bailey
November 13, 2013
It was such a pleasure to know Mr. Spackman. We had a lot of good times with him, loved his sense of humor, and was such a gentleman. He is missed.
November 13, 2013
Tom had his crew weld the train locomotive and track into a one ton pick up and told me to deliver to Houston TX where he had sold it to a park to transport kids. He gave me 100 bucks for gas, I was 18 and told me it would be nice if I made it back in time to help out for the Fourth of July busy time which was 6 days away. I delivered the locomotive and made it back in time. Great guy. Doug Capper
Don Marvin
November 13, 2013
My sympathy to the Spackman family in the loss of your father, from a member of the Monticello high school class of 1956.
Bob/JoAnne Westfall
November 13, 2013
JoAnne and I wish to extend our condolences to the Tom Spackman family. Mr. Spackman's vision,creativity,and fairness influenced many of us as we came of age.
Glenn/Kay Jennings
November 13, 2013
Too the family of Tom our thoughts and prayers are with you. Tom was always fun to visit with when out and about he will be sadly missed by all.
Charlie & Shirley (Alkire) Paulk
November 13, 2013
Our condolences to the entire Spackman family. Tom and the whole Spackman family always treated everyone so nicely. It was great working for them and I have many fond memories of them and the good times at Indiana Beach. Plus, I met my wonderful wife at Indiana Beach and we just recently celebrated our 50th Anniversary.
Nannette (Pashak) Biehle
November 13, 2013
My family owned and ran the Taco Stand from the 1960's to the mid 1980's.(Obenchain/Pashak) Lots of great memories from the many summers spent at Indiana Beach as a kid Mr. Spackman was truly a great man and entrepreneur in the amusement park business. He had such an influence on the Monticello and surrounding communities. He will be truly missed, but his legacy of Indiana Beach will continue.
Chrystal Corbin
November 13, 2013
Rather then send my condolences I would like to send a message of celebration that this man put up with all of the people that came through IB, employees and guests alike with the same amount of enthusiasm and smile on his face. Thanks Tom for all your years of wisdom, love, and ideas that will still bring happiness for generations to come.
Rita Wiseman
November 13, 2013
He was such a loving man and I would sit and listen to all his stories he would tell. Loved his smile when he knew he was pulling your leg. He was such a great man and loved to talk about how the kids would smile when they would come to Indiana Beach. RIP Tom.... it was such an honor to know you.....
November 13, 2013
Our prayers and thoughts are with you. God bless.
Your friends
Gary&Anita Bogart
Mayrose Taylor-Snider
November 13, 2013
So many good times to remember at the Beach and the Spackman home during High School.
My thoughts are with the family especially Ruth. I will always remember your father fondly.
Christifer Gibbs
November 13, 2013
Thanks for an amazing to go during the summer
Gary & Pam Bishop
November 13, 2013
R.I.P. such a great man he had made alot of family fun for people in and out of indiana our family have been going to IB for over 50 years our parents, our family, our grandchildren and now our greatgrandchildren have gone and love every moment. So it is with great sadness that we have heard of your lost . To the family you are in our thoughts and prayers .
Jim Hartman
November 13, 2013
My sincere condolences to Ruth and Jim, Tom Jr and the entire family. It was a privilege to have known and served the family and company over the years. Tom Sr was a fine gentleman and joy to work with.
Mark Michal
November 13, 2013
Thank You for the great times at Indiana Beach when I was a child. My children always love going there also. Tom you was one hard working man. You will truly be missed and remembered. Yours so very truly, Mark Michal
November 13, 2013
Tom Spackman and Indiana Beach have played a big part in the lives of so many young people growing up in Monticello. Thanks to him starting the ski show at the beach, I have so many fond memories of my time there.
Judes Gilkerson
November 13, 2013
My condolences to the Spackman family. Memories of Tom will be in the minds of thousands of people for a long time to come. I remember as a young man in the late 50's saving some money to come to the beach from Williamsport, IN as many weekends as possible. Later in my life, I had the priveledge and pleasure of performing in the Skyroom. I always enjoyed seeing Tom at various places where my band and I enterained, and seeing how he loved to dance. Rest in peace, Mr. Spackman.
KEVIN DIENER
November 13, 2013
THANK YOU TOM FOR ALL YOU GAVE TO US IN WHITE COUNTY AND EVERY WHERE ELSE.
GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
Joe Marczewski
November 13, 2013
Thanks for the Memories. Karen and Joe Marczewski
November 13, 2013
We are so sorry to hear about Mr. Spackman. He has accomplished so much for our city and community. Jim and I are praying for your family during this sad time. Take care Steve and Cathy we will miss you at the campground. (Z73) Jim and Betty Jo Norris. Monticello, IN
Mark Vaccaro
November 12, 2013
Thank you to the Spackman family for giving our family such fond memories. Very sorry to hear about your loss! Mr Spackman, May you rest in the arms of Jesus...till we meet in heaven! The Lullo, Bruce and Vaccaro Families.
Sherry Million
November 12, 2013
Back in the early 70's, I had many happy memories at Indiana Beach when my ex-husband's band played up there. In fact, that is where I met him! Also, spent many challenging times looking for my young son at the beach! I am truly sorry for the family's loss. Mr. Spackman touched my life and so many others with this wonderful playground he created for us.
Sherry Million
Lee Ann Reinholt
November 12, 2013
The Monticello community has lost a true pioneer with the passing of Mr Spackman! Thoughts and prayers going out to the family as you say your last goodbyes to a wonderful and inspirational man that had a positive impact on so many people!
Chris (Lilja) London
November 12, 2013
I am very sad to hear about your Dads passing. My dad brought our family to Indiana Beach since 1961. He loved it so much all of his children love it to this day. 2 of us loved it so much we moved here as adults. We will miss seeing your dad walking the boardwalk, but because of your Dad, our children and hopefully their children will always enjoy Indiana Beach RIP Mr. Spackman. Say Hi to my dad and mom for me.
Brenda (Wiseman) Gardner
November 12, 2013
My condolences to Mr. Spackman's family and friends. I was lucky to work at the Beach for 7 years during high school / college. Mr. Spackman was a true visionary and pioneer. My fondest memories of Mr. Spackman were watching him walk the park. He definitely believed in getting out there and seeing things for himself. He would always have a notepad and pen with him. He frequently stopped to take a note about things that needed done. He will be greatly missed. He made a difference in so many people's lives, including mine.
Jim Lacy
November 12, 2013
I have enjoyed Many happy days there....Thanks to Mr. Spackman and his Indiana Beach.
Bruce Smith
November 12, 2013
To the Spackman family,
Both of your parents had a special influence on me as a child. I worked at the Beach for six summers and left believing that hard, honest work will result in a positive success not only for them but the entire community. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you mourn the lost of your beloved father.
Beth Bischof
November 12, 2013
You gave me a lifetime of memories by creating the Indiana Beach I know and love. Thank you for putting your heart and soul into a place that has captured my heart and soul. What a wonderful 100 years on Earth you had and you will always through your park be remembered as a great man!
Paul Goodner
November 12, 2013
Our condolences to the Spackman family in this most difficult time. Tom had such a monumental impact in so many ways. I worked for him for 7 summers, and he was such a great mentor. I still rely on his guidance and advice nearly 30 years later. He is walking the Boardwalk in Heaven now.
John Wood
November 12, 2013
Mr. Spackman was a very special man. As an owner of a small park, he took great pride in creating elements for his park. One such element was his dark ride where he was known to say that it was perfect because, it was dark with nothing in it so, it couldn't be broken! It was a proud moment in our company's history when we finally were able to redo his dark ride into a Pirate themed interactive attraction. We rode it the first time together and the next year, he and his son, hired us to redo his famed walk-thru attraction, Frankenstein Castle.
His leadership, insight and hard work was an inspiration to many.
My heart goes out to the family and in particular, Tom and the Davis's.
Jill Hively/Stenner
November 12, 2013
With Deepest Sympathies to the family, will always remember him walking the boardwalk and the memories that my grandmother Adele Ricker would share about their days at Ideal Beach…which then became Indiana Beach…..
Bill Alter
November 12, 2013
My deepest sympathy to the Spackman family...Tom was a standard bearer for the family owned amusement parks. A true industry leader. God bless him.
Bonnie Liechty
November 12, 2013
As "residents" of Cottage #1 for one week every summer from 1983 to present, everyone at Indiana Beach came to feel like "family". There can be no greater legacy than helping to bring joy into the world...your vision for Indiana Beach did just that. You helped to create happy memories for so many families just like ours! We were so very blessed to have had you in the world. Sincere sympathy to Mr. Spackman's family & friends, with special thoughts to Laura and John Wengrow.
Micki (Bird) Gipson
November 12, 2013
My deepest sympathies to the family, I don't hardly remember a time when I went to the beach that I did not see Mr. Spackman walking the boardwalk, always friendly and never failed to speak. What a legacy he leaves behind.
Bud & Anna Eisele
November 12, 2013
Sending our heartfelt condolences to the family. Tom brought so much joy and excitement to others over the years through the amusement park. Those memories will live forever in hearts of the young as they grow older. Thanks to Tom and his family for those great memories!!! Tom will be missed but never forgotten. Blessing to the family.
Margie Million-Fisher
November 12, 2013
My condolences to Mr. Spackman's family. He was a good man and brought lots of tourists to Monticello. I enjoyed working at the Beach when I was in high school.
Charley Erb
November 12, 2013
My condolences to Mr. Spackman's family and friends, with special thoughts to Scott, Bryan, Chris and their mom.
Jamie Musall
November 12, 2013
Our deepest sympathy and prayers to the family. Tom was a very awesome man, whom I got to know through My grandma Pearl at Big Chief, he would often come in at the beginning of the season and have the meeting of the minds. How very blessed the community was to have him and his business here
Ruth Ames
November 12, 2013
My deepest sympathy to the whole family. Such great memories of such a wonderful person will last forever.
Generations of IB signs
Kevin Burke
November 12, 2013
The colors of my life
Are bountiful and bold,
The purple glow of indigo,
The gleam of green and gold.
The splendor of the sunrise,
The dazzle of a flame,
The glory of a rainbow,
I'd put 'em all to shame.
No quiet browns and grays,
I'll take my days instead
And fill them till they overflow
With rose and cherry red!
And should this sunlit world
Grow dark one day,
The colors of my life
Will leave a shining light
To show the way...
The colors of my life Are bountiful and bold, The purple glow of indigo, The gleam of green and gold. The splendor of the sunrise, The dazzle of a fla
Kevin Burke
November 12, 2013
Showing 1 - 66 of 66 results
Make a Donation
in Thomas Spackman's name
Memorial Events
for Thomas Spackman
Funeral services provided by:
Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home - Monticello202 S. Illinois St., Monticello, IN 47960
How to support Thomas's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
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 moreResources to help you cope with loss
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 more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Thomas Spackman'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
