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rueschhoff

In Loving Memory

Rueschhoff, Thomas Charles

June 7, 1927 - October 8, 2024

Thomas Charles Rueschhoff, 97, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 8, 2024. Born on June 7, 1927 into a family of 11 children, he left a legacy of love to and through his beloved children John Rueschhoff, Joanie Rueschhoff, and Barb (Doug) Niman; grandchildren Sydney (Stephen) Kise, William Niman and Heston Rueschhoff; great-grandson Falcon Charles Rueschhoff, and as a brother, uncle, and friend. He was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Phyllis Rueschhoff.

Known to all as ‘the sweetest man with the kindest heart’, Tom had a fantastic sense of humor, always ready to smile, laugh and exchange silly banter, which made everyone instantaneously fall in love with him. One of the greatest and last remaining of ‘The Greatest Generation’, he was a man of deep faith and simple values, being shaped by his experiences growing up during the Great Depression and World War II. As Tom Brokaw aptly noted, he “stayed true to [his] values of personal responsibility, duty, honor, and faith.” His quiet demeanor belied a profound wisdom that he shared generously with those around him, and his mere presence was a blessing to anyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

A lover of Big Band music, Tom was an amazing dancer with great moves, which he happily shared on dance floors across the country with willing partners to the amazement and sheer joy of all onlookers. He was a passionate sports fan who loved the St. Louis Cardinals baseball, Kansas City Chiefs, and playing golf well into his 90s. He loved dogs (not cats), bunnies and birds, and sitting outside to enjoy nature and the beautiful, warm sunshine any chance he got. He was also very proud of his career as a Printer/Lithographer, a testament to his dedication and hard work.

Tom will be deeply missed by his extensive family and many friends. His caring nature and calm presence made a lasting impact on all who crossed his path.

A memorial service will be held at Saint Justin Martyr Catholic Church (11910 Eddie & Park Road) on Friday, October 18th, at 11 AM. Tom and his wife Phyllis made the decision long ago to give the ultimate gift of donating their bodies to St. Louis University.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages honoring Tom’s memory through acts of kindness and service to others, making a donation to the Greatest Generation Foundation which helps veterans of WWII and families, or planting a tree and reflecting on the values he cherished.

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7 thoughts on “Rueschhoff, Thomas Charles”

  1. Joanie, I’m soo sorry for your loss, what a great honor you gave your father by caring for him in his last years so he was able to stay in his home and be comfortable until the day he was called home by his Heavenly Father. I was pleased to meet your father because you always spoke of him with such joy, I know he will be missed greatly.

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  2. Dear Joanie and family, sending my sincere condolences. I’m so glad I got to meet your father. Joanie introduced me to him when we both lived in Los Angeles. He was so kind and just made you smile. He was a delight. Thinking of you Joanie and sending Love.
    Lean on the Lord and know, all is well.
    Toni (Clinkingbeard) Van Dyne

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  3. This perfectly captures the life and values of my grandpa. I feel incredibly grateful to have known such a kind and loving man. From our dance sessions to our conversations about his life and values, every moment with him was a gift. He truly lived with generosity and faith, and his impact will always be felt in our lives. I will cherish the memories we created together and am thankful for the pieces of him that live on in my mom and our whole family.

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  4. I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your wonderful father. What a blessed life he lived. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

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  5. Tom will be missed at Crestwood Park and Recreation. He was always a joy to see and have at the Community Center.

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  6. Dear Joannie & Barbie and Family,
    I’m so very sorry for the loss of your amazingly kind and loving Father. The service was beautiful and I’m sending you all Prayers for healing and sending so much love. 🙏❤️
    Sincerely,
    Kristen

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