Thomas W. Schipkowski

Thomas William Schipkowski, 74, of Litchfield, IL (formerly of Edwardsville, IL), passed away on Thursday, September 14, 2023, at his residence.

Tom, son of Walter and Gladys Mae Brooks, was born December 23, 1948, in Edwardsville, IL and attended Edwardsville High School.

In 1976, Tom married Barbara Bower in Collinsville and went on to have three children and three grandchildren.

Tom had an adventurous spirit. He enjoyed music, photography, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, Corvette cars, and the occasional practical joke. In his earlier years before attending classes at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, he spent time exploring Florida, California, and the Appalachian Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains. 

Tom was a provider by nature, was quick to lend a helping hand, and went above and beyond to make sure his family was comfortable and supported. As a Lineman and Troubleshooter for over 35 years at Illinois Power Company, now Ameren Illinois, he was known for having an outstanding work ethic and being an expert in his work.

He worked tirelessly to guarantee his family experienced memorable vacations and loving holidays, as well as nurtured opportunities for his kids’ future. As a reliable maker and creator, Tom could build a barn, fix a car, and remodel a kitchen from the ground up - among many other things.

Knowing his sons’ passion for playing outside and wanting the best for them, Tom even installed impressive basketball and sand volleyball courts at the family’s Edwardsville property for his boys to enjoy as they grew up. He was a generous father.

As tough as Tom was, he also had a kind and gentle character. He loved animals (especially dogs) and was a doting, devoted grandfather to Cash, Waylon and Harlan.

In retirement, he refined his golf game, spent precious time with his three beloved grandkids, and spoiled his granddogs. 

Tom was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife, Barb of Litchfield, IL, sons Joshua (Sara) Schipkowski of St. Louis, MO, Nathan Schipkowski of Litchfield, IL, and Jason (Kitty) Schipkowski of St. Louis Missouri, and three grandchildren, siblings, Nancy Carter of Edwardsville, Il, Carla and Jim Bollinger of Huntley, Il., Alan and Diane Schipkowsli of Crossville, TN, Mark Schipkowski and Steve Horvath of St. Peters, Mo, Michael and Lise Schipkowski of Glen Carbon, IL, Jeffrey and Karen Schipkowski of Edwardsville, IL and several nieces and nephews. 

Donations in Tom’s honor may be made to PAWS CARE, located in Montgomery County, at www.pawscare.org <http://www.pawscare.org>. 

Litchfield Family Funeral Service 700 South State Street is in charge of arrangements. 

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