Thomas E Spindler

Thomas E. "Tom" Spindler, Sr., age 76, passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on November 29, 2025, surrounded by family. Born April 18, 1949, in Quincy, Illinois, Tom lived a life marked by joy, patriotism, strong faith, love for people, and devotion to his family.

Growing up, Tom was active, adventurous, and never shy about making people laugh. He formed lifelong friendships during his years at Quincy High School-where he was best known for his humor, his contagious smile, and the legendary moment he let a greased pig loose in the halls. He was the life of every room he entered.

Tom met the love of his life, Vicky, in his high school years. He would always say she was the reason he made it through school. Just before leaving for Vietnam, he went AWOL for 10 days-not to run away, but to run toward love, returning to Quincy so he and Vicky could be married. They were married on January 30, 1969.

Tom proudly served in the United States Army from 1968 to 1970. During his service in Vietnam, he was injured March 6, 1969, and was awarded several medals, including the Purple Heart for his courage and sacrifice. His experiences during that time sparked a deeper search for his faith, and in 1971 Tom and Vicky found salvation at Faith Assembly of God in Quincy. Their shared walk with the Lord continued to strengthen throughout their marriage of 52 years together.

Over nine years, their family grew to include their three children: Tom Jr., Tamara, and Tracey. Tom was an incredibly devoted father who loved spending time with his family-playing softball, basketball, and football in his younger years, and later cheering from the sidelines as his children grew.

Tom worked hard throughout his life and began earning his way early as a paperboy before working at a local car wash. After returning home from the military, he sold insurance and worked for Kar Products before stepping into his longtime career with Kraft Foods. Over 27 years, Tom earned numerous awards and the respect of his peers, culminating in his role as Executive Vice President of Sales Operations. His career took the family across the country, moving nine times as he continued to excel in leadership and sales.

Upon retiring, Tom stepped into one of his greatest roles yet-"POP." He treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren, traveling to visit them and making memories full of laughter and adventure. He and Vicky would go on to celebrate the joy of 10 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

Tom leaves behind a legacy of faith, humor, hard work, and unwavering love for his family. He taught Sunday School, read countless Christian books and biographies, and lived with a bold confidence in God's grace. His laughter, his storytelling, his patriotism, and his determination will forever be cherished.

Above all, Tom lived a life that mattered-one of service, sacrifice, love, and a heart that never stopped caring for those around him.

He fought a good fight. He finished the race. He kept the faith. And now, he has received his crown of righteousness in the presence of his Savior.

Tom leaves behind his 3 children Tom Jr (Amy) Spindler of St Charles, IL, Tamara (Gabriel) Trevino of Sioux Falls, SD and Tracey Hall of Savoy IL. Along with 10 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Vicky Altheide Spindler, his parents John Spindler and Joann Miller Spindler, his sister, Adelia "DeDe" Carter and his in-laws, Robert Altheide and Wilmena Clow Altheide.

A visitation will be held at Heritage Funeral Home in Sioux Falls, SD on December 2, 2025, from 4:00- 6:00 p.m. along with a visitation in his hometown of Quincy, IL at O'Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 4pm-7:00 p.m.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at O'Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 10:00 am. Rev Gabriel A Trevino will officiate. Following the service, Tom will be laid to rest at Greenmount Cemetery in Quincy, IL.