Thomas Henry Reiners

REINERS, THOMAS HENRY

5/23/1947 – 8/25/2024

The world lost a shining light with the passing of Tom Reiners at the age of 77. When asked how he wanted to live his remaining days, Tom said "With gratitude, grace and humility." That is, in fact, how he lived his entire life.

Born to Henry and Elizabeth Reiners, Tom was the seventh of ten children on a farm near Twin Brooks, South Dakota. His first eight years of education were in a one-room schoolhouse. After graduating from Milbank High School in 1965, he earned a B.S.in Engineering Physics from South Dakota State University in Brookings, and then a M.S.in Physics from South Dakota School of Mines in Rapid City. His successful forty-year career as an aerospace systems engineer and rocket scientist included work at Hughes Aircraft; Aerospace Corporation; Jet Propulsion Lab; and Raytheon Corporation. Corporate relocations took Tom and family to Los Angeles, Northern Virginia, Denver and Tucson. The capstone of Tom's career was achieving the rare Systems Architect Certification.

Outside of work, Tom enjoyed hiking, camping, backpacking and skiing in both the High Sierras and Rocky Mountains. Later in life, Tom and Cynthia toured the West in their camper van. Having earned his Eagle Scout award in high school, Tom served many years as a Boy Scout leader. After retiring back to Denver in 2012, he continued his lifelong love of singing with the Cherry Creek Chorale and Charles Wesley Choir at St Andrew UMC, was active with the Wellshire Men's Golf Club, and volunteered at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Over many years at St. Andrew UMC he was a founding member of the Men's Covenant group and volunteered on several committees and service groups.

Tom is survived by Cynthia, his wife of 44 years; his first wife, Pat; two sons, Alan and Daniel (Priscilla); and by his six sisters, one brother, and numerous nieces and nephews to three generations. He was preceded in death by his parents, and two siblings.

A memorial service celebrating Tom's life will be held on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, 2:00PM at St. Andrew United Methodist Church. 9203 S University Blvd, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126. A reception will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the St Andrew UMC Music Fund, or the charity of your choice.