Thomas Michael Schwindaman, 59, of Florence, Alabama, left his earthly home on Jan. 2, 2015, in the presence of his family, after a yearlong illness. He was born in Rockford, Illinois, on Oct. 10, 1955, to Donald and Kathleen Schwindaman (both deceased), the youngest of four children and the only son. Tom attended Saint Patrick’s and Boylan High School where he made lifelong friends. Tom lived in Rockford before moving to Florence in 1999. He attended Woodmont Baptist Church and traveled to Brazil several times for missions.
Growing up Tom enjoyed figuring out how things worked mechanically, and this interest was encouraged by his father and grandfather. Tom learned the electrical trade from his father. He could fix, build, or create just about anything and he was well known for his “Schwinventions”. It was typical for friends and family to call on him for his expert advice.
Tom loved cars, once having a collection of over 25 antique automobiles, mostly Buicks. He loved boating and being on the water.
Tom, “Joey”, was loved by many and known for his servant’s heart and quiet generosity, always willing to share his time, talent, and resources, never expecting anything in return.
Tom spent 36 years with his one and only, Barbie. More than anything, he cherished his girls and adored his grandchildren, always ready to help with a project or give loving advice. Tom found his salvation in Jesus and was looking forward to his Homecoming.
Tom is survived by his wife, Barbara; children, Jill (Matt) Christensen and Kelly (Kleber) de Souza; grandchildren, Kenneth, Kirstin, Kyle, Katie, and Kobe; sisters, Susan (Richard) Zordan, Donna (Jim) Beilfuss, and Diane (Paul) Conery.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2015, at Greenview Funeral Home from 1-3 p.m., followed by the memorial service. Contributions made to the family will be placed in a memorial fund in Tom’s name.
