Thomas Michael Holman

Thomas Holman, 72, beloved father, grandfather and friend, passed away Wednesday May 29. 2024 at Cox Medical Center in Springfield MO.
Thomas was born on March 31, 1952 in Centerville IA the first of two children born to Rex and Rosezella Holman.
He lived much of his life in Keokuk IA. After graduating from Keokuk High School in 1970, he attended Southeastern Community College in Keokuk. He was united in marriage to Linda Conn on July 1,1972 at St. Peter's Church in Keokuk. They later divorced.
Tom began his working career at an early age. He began working for Chuck Eppers at the Chuck wagon in high school. He later opened the Verity Room Supper Club in Keokuk. IN 1974 he began his career with Hy- Vee. Starting at the store in Ft. Madison and later opening the Keokuk location in 1975. He remained with Hy- Vee until 1990 when he purchased Tipenbud in Keokuk. In 2000 Thomas moved to Springfield Missouri and took a job with Village Inn. He later retired from Krispy Kreme as a route driver.
To say that Tom lived life to the fullest is an understatement. Whether it be out on the river with his crew, at the bowling alley with the "B" Team, or playing cards in the window of Tipenbud. He always was the life of the party. Tom was also one of the most giving people you would meet. He would literally give you the shirt off his back if that is all he had. He gave countless hours to the Cardinal Stritch and Keokuk High School Boosters. He and his buddy, Gordy were always the first to man the grill for the steak nights at the Elks or Yacht Club. This continued on even after he moved to Springfield. The time he donated to the Eagles club in Ozark helped raise funds for numerous events and charities. No one was a stranger to Tom, he could talk to anyone, anywhere. He would call his kids and grandkids to tell about his sometimes hours long phone calls with his lifelong friend Steve and his wife Nancy. He always made time for you.
Family was always first to Tom. He always had time for his kids of grandkids no matter the circumstance. He loved traveling around for the busy family events even though he may not have liked or understood what the event was. From watching TJ finish the MR540, to many long road trip days to watch the grandkids play soccer, or to just sit by one of Tony's famous bonfires. Even later, he would never miss an event, no matter if he didn't feel well. He spoke to his kids and grandkids almost daily. His calls with his grandkids were always a good laugh as they all liked to prank each other. These conversations will definitely be missed.
Tom is survived by his three sons; Andy and his wife Tricia of Springfield MO Tony and his fiancé Kelli of Nixa MO, and Thomas James (TJ) and his wife Nicole of Galena MO. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Tanner and his wife Rachel of Nixa MO, Sarah of Springfield, and Jacob Thomas of Springfield, and a Great Granddaughter, Ella of Nixa. He is also survived by a sister in law, Meredith, and nieces Melanie and Nora.
He was preceded on death by his parents and brother Tim.
Donations may be made in Tom's memory to the Keokuk High School Sports Boosters or the Keokuk Catholic Schools.
Per Tom's request, a celebration of his life will be held on August 10 in Springfield MO. All are welcome.