In Loving Memory of Thomas Hejlek, III
April 13, 1948 – July 24, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Tom Hejlek, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who passed away on July 24, 2025 at the age of 77.
Tom was born in St. Louis, Missouri to parents, Thomas Hejlek Jr., and Eloise Mullman. He devoted his life to his family, always putting their needs before his own and leading by example. He is survived by his siblings, Marilyn Nice, Janet Haselhorst, Diane Hejlek and Kathy Ansted. As a husband to Jean Hejlek (Janson), he was steadfast and loving; their marriage of 56 years was a true partnership built on respect, laughter, and deep devotion.
As a father, Tom was a guiding light to Tom Hejlek (Thomas Hejlek IV (Karen Duncan)), Tim Hejlek (Lindsey) and Katy Henderson (Kyle), teaching them the value of hard work, honesty, and kindness. His love extended even further as a proud grandfather, affectionately known as “Pa,” to Summer Hejlek, Reese Hejlek, Ty Hejlek (Thomas Hejlek V), Janson Hejlek, Colin Hejlek, Karson Henderson and Konnor Henderson. He took pride watching them grow up at the lake. He lovingly rationed his boat gas as “ski gas” rather than “tube gas” until they were confidently slalom skiing around Goose Creek. Pa made time for the kids- attending ball games, school events and traveling to various parts of the state to show his support.
He served in the US Army for 2 years as a forward observer. His lifelong work ethic took root early at Hejlek’s Tom-Boy Market in South St. Louis, where he started his career in the grocery business. He went on to spend more than four decades as a meat cutter at Straub’s, where he took great pride in his work. He was an active member of the VFW in Festus, Knights of Columbus in Bonne Terre and St. Anne Catholic Church in French Village.
Known for his generous spirit, he welcomed everyone with a hug and an open door. His home at the lake was a gathering place for family, friends, and even those he had just met—who never stayed strangers for long.
Services: Visitation will be held at Kutis South County Chapel, (5255 Lemay Ferry Rd, St. Louis, MO 63129) on Monday, August 4, 2025, from 4:00–7:00 PM.
A Funeral Mass will take place on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 12:00 PM at St. Anne Catholic Church in French Village, Missouri, followed by burial at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) – Founders of the Wall.
I met Tom when he came to visit his wife Jean and sisters Diane and Kathy when we were bowling. I loved talking to him about politics, because we thought the same on that issue. Tom was so nice and considerate. . Truly sorry for the loss of him. He and his family will be in our prayers.🙏