Donald “Bill” William Tom
May 25, 1963 ~ December 19, 2023 (age 60)
DONALD “BILL” WILLIAM TOM, age 60, of Washington Court House, passed away at 2:07 a.m. on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, on his beloved farm, surrounded by his wife and children. He was born on May 25, 1963, in Muskingum County to Donald R. Tom and Nancy Danison Tom. On April 17, 1993, he married the former Bridget Cooper.
Bill was a graduate of Philo High School and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Science from The Ohio State University in 1987. He worked as the Executive Vice President at United Producers Incorporated. Bill was very active in the agriculture community, serving as the Beef Director for the Ohio State Fair for the past 10 years. He also served as a board member for the Ohio Cattleman’s Association, was a former member of the Ohio Water and Soil Commission, was a member of the local Fayette County Cattleman’s Association, and held numerous other positions related to livestock and youth, too many to count. He served as a mentor for veterans and young people, both on his own and through various organizations. In 2022, he received a Distinguished Alumni award from the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences at The Ohio State University. It goes without saying for those who knew him that Bill was an avid Ohio State Buckeyes fan and could be found at the golf course with his wife and kids all spring and summer.
In addition to his parents and loving wife of thirty years, Bill is survived by his children: Sean Tom, Braiden Tom, Maeve Tom and Gavin Tom; and the light of his life, his granddaughter Arabella Wical. Also surviving are his brothers, Tracy (Teresa) Tom, Troy (Jackie) Tom, and Chris (Christy) Tom, along with his many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Bill never met a stranger, as is evident from his host of friends and colleagues also surviving.
In keeping with Bill’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and there will be no calling hours. A funeral Mass in memory of Bill will be held privately by the family and close friends at St. Colman of Cloyne Catholic Church at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Bill’s name be made to: The Ohio Cattleman’s Association referencing “Bill Tom Scholarship” in the memo. Because of Bill’s passion for agriculture and encouraging young people in the ag community, this was also his wish. Also keeping with Bill’s wishes, there will be a celebration of life on Friday, February 9, 2024, from 2pm to 6pm at Ivory Meadows in Yellow Springs. The celebration will begin with a prayer and follow an open house format.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Summers Funeral Home.
Online condolences can be sent to the family by visiting www.summersfuneralhome.com
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