John L. Tom

John L. Tom, 72, of Plainfield, passed away October 19, 2024.  He was born August 30, 1952 in Indianapolis, IN.  John spent his early years working at his family's local business, Joe's Garage Whitlow's Towing. His Uncle Joe taught him how to repair and tow vehicles. As he got older he worked at the local NAPA auto parts store. Eventually finding his path in life to begin a career in Law Enforcement. He spent over a combined 30 years of Law Enforcement starting out with the Mooresville Police Department and then moving over to the Plainfield Police Department. Finally, he finished out his career working for the Hendricks County Sheriff's Department when he retired in September of 2005. While working at the Sheriff's Department he had the opportunity to join the Indiana Drug Enforcement Association where he worked undercover with other officers. During his time as a police officer he would go above and beyond to help those in their time of need. He worked as security for NHRA racing. John would travel to different cities and work at different race tracks. After retiring from the Sheriff's Department and NHRA he went back to the family business towing cars and helped as a dispatcher at Joe's Garage. John was a member of F.O.P. where he served as President of the local lodge for a few terms. He also enjoyed late night card games with his friends. Many that knew him would always see him with a smile on his face and cup of coffee in hand. He enjoyed the hobby of building and racing his own cars with his wife Yvonne. His dog Cosmo was important to him and he was known for spoiling him with cheeseburgers. He enjoyed relaxing on his couch watching westerns and sports. Friends and family were important to John but none more important than his granddaughter Ava.  John is survived by his wife Yvonne of 51 years.  He is also survived by his son, Jason (Shannon) Tom; three brothers, Kenny Tom, Chuck (KIm) Lydick and Donnie (Lisa) Lydick; and a granddaughter, Ava Tom.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Nancy and Ed Lydick; and a brother Mike Tom.  Visitation will be on  Friday, October 25, 2024 from 5:00 to 8:00 pm in the Hampton-Gentry Funeral Home, Plainfield.  Funeral services will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, October 26 in the funeral home.  Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Plainfield.  Memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association, 115 W. Washington St., #1180S, Indianapolis, IN 46204 or Lung.org