Name: Visitation for Thomas G. Farence
Start: 2024-11-22T22:00:00.000Z
End: 2024-11-23T00:00:00.000Z
Location: Gibson - Bode Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Ltd. - Port Byron

Thomas G. Farence

April 12, 1948 - November 13, 2024

Thomas Gerard "Tom" Farence, 76, of Port Byron, Ill., passed suddenly Wednesday morning, November 13, 2024. Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, November 22, 2024 at Gibson – Bode Funeral Home, Port Byron. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 6 p.m. Memorials may be made to Rock Island Animal Control Center or Railroading Heritage of Midwest America (Silvis, Ill.).

Tom was born April 12, 1948 in Milwaukee, Wis. He was the son of John and Anne Farence. At an early age Tom took an interest in singing and playing the accordion at the church. It quickly became evident that Tom had a musical talent and was soon recruited at age four to play accordion in a professional setting, traveling abroad, including playing with the "American Polka King" and legend, Frank Yankovic. Eventually his joy of music became overshadowed by his love of trains. His father worked for the Railroad. Tom followed his footsteps at age 18 and began his career with Milwaukee Road, Soo Line, Canadian Pacific, IMRL and IC&E. He was along time member and Local Chairman of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers (Div-66) and worked many management positions, traveling all over the Midwest before retiring as Superintendent.

In 1991, Tom settled in the Quad Cities. He married his beloved wife, Jeannie on August 27, 2004 and together they shared the best years of his life. In addition to his passion for trains and the Railroad, Tom was an avid photographer and captured many wonderful pictures throughout his extensive travel with the Railroad. He also held a special place in his heart for his grandkids and pets.

He is survived by his wife, Jeannie; children, Connie (Craig) Miller, Bellingham, Wash., Adam (Carrie) Farence, Walworth, Wis., Chad (Krista) Livingston, Davenport, Iowa, Noni (Bryan) Hauck, Wilmington, N.C.; grandchildren, Joseph, Joshua, Lydia, Russell, Austin, Andrew, Caylie, Haylie, Andrew, Kristian (Jeff), Ava, Ellie; and great grandchildren, Nova, Giles, Raine and Lyla. He was preceded in death by his parents. Share a memory or condolence at www.gibsonbodefh.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Rock Island Dispatch Argus on Nov. 17, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Farence

Sponsored by Gibson - Bode Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Ltd. - Port Byron.

4 Entries

Grant Kozera

December 24, 2024

I never met Tom but have bunch of photos from a friend.. real treasures... I was involved with Frank as a young kid also a band member I met Frank when I was six in 1965. Believe it or not this picture was taken the day I was born July 19th. 1958. Was taken at muskego Beach ballroom. There is Tommy with all the boys in the band. No doubt well loved. My condolences to the family. I wish I would have met Tom. Sincerely, Grant Kozera

Grant Kozera

December 23, 2024

I sent a picture over that was taken July 19th. 1958 of a young Tommy and Frankie and the Yanks playing in Milwaukee at muskego Beach ballroom. Interesting to know that I was right behind. Tommy and meeting Frank years later and being a band member. I have these snapshots from a friend. Interesting to note. I was born the day these were taken.

Steve Smedley

November 23, 2024

Jeannie and Kids
I was very saddened to learn of Tom passing. He was a wonderful man and a masterful photographer. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Just lost my mother in July. Its tough to lose our Heroes! Hugs! Smeds

Bill Stowers

November 18, 2024

So sorry to hear of Tom´s passing. I worked with him for many years on the Milwaukee road and then the c.p. Tom loved his job and he was a great engineer and always fun to work with. Our condolences to the family.rest in peace. Bill and Cathy Stowers