Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at St. Josaphat’s Catholic Church in Loup City. Father Richard Piontkowski celebrated the Mass.

Rich Peters was the lector.

Tom and Deb Smedra were the Eucharistic ministers.

Amy Kowalski and Sonny and Bonnie Sekutera were the musicians.

Gift bearers were Cheryl Albright and Connie Shafer.

Pallbearers included Peyton Stanczyk, Chesney Stanczyk, Ridglyn Stanczyk, Hudson Obermiller, Turner Obermiller, Sawyer Obermiller, and Jaxon Obermiller.

All of Tom’s AA friends served as honorary pallbearers.

Burial was in the Evergreen Cemetery in Loup City.

Memorials are suggested to the Loup City Fire Department or the Ralph Obermiller Scholarship Fund through the Sherman County Foundation. Higgins Funeral Home in Loup City is in charge of arrangements. Condolences for the Obermiller family can be left at higginsfuneralhomelc. com.

Tom was born on July 16, 1954, in Loup City, the second child of nine children born to Ralph Howard Obermiller and Mary Theresa (Pray) Obermiller.

He grew up on the family farm north of Ashton until 1960 when his Grandpa Obermiller died, then moved south of town. He attended District 30, Wiggle Creek, St. Josaphat’s, and graduated from Loup City High School in 1972. He went to college at Kearney State and wrestled. While in college, he worked for the Roeder family, which further prepared him for his fulfilling life as a farmer.

In 1972 and 1973, Tom won the Golden Gloves Championship at the Central Districts in Grand Island. He and his brothers all claimed titles during those years, proudly coached by their father, Ralph.

On September 21, 1975, Tom married the love of his life, Suzan Couton. Together, they built a strong and loving family, raising three children: Jennifer, Timothy, and Lucas. Tom was always there for his family, never missing a game or event. Whether it was wrestling, volleyball, or football, he was in the stands, cheering them on and showing his unwavering support. His words of encouragement were always “put your best foot forward and give‘er your best shot!”

For over forty years, Tom devoted himself to serving his community through the rural fire board, where he played a key role in designing and constructing the new fire hall. His commitment extended to the ambulance board, ensuring vital emergency services for the area. As the school board president of District #14 Moon Creek and a dedicated Sherman County Commissioner, he worked tirelessly to relocate the library to the new school, leaving a lasting impact on education and community resources.

Beyond these roles, Tom was actively involved in the Sherman County Prevention Board and served as a lifelong member of St. Josaphat’s Parish, where he was a dedicated lector, leader, and Knight

The Sherman County Times | February 19, 2025

of Columbus. His commitment extended to the Sherman County Foundation Board, reflecting his deep devotion to community service.

Tom had a deep love for nature, gardening, animals, and farming— his dill pickles were the best. A devoted husband, proud father, and cherished grandfather, he was a loyal friend to many. Known for his unwavering determination, he never backed down from what he believed in. His faith and hope guided him through life, leaving a lasting impact on his family.

Tom embraced each day with gratitude and purpose, recently celebrating thirty-nine years of sobriety. His journey not only strengthened him but also inspired and supported countless friends and family along the way, living one day at a time.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of forty-nine years, Suzan of Loup City; his children, Jennifer (Randy) Stanczyk of Oshkosh, Timothy (Asia) Obermiller of Loup City, and Lucas (Emily) Obermiller of Loup City. He was a proud grandfather to Peyton, Chesney, and Ridglyn Stanczyk; Hudson, Turner, and Jaxon Obermiller; and Sawyer and Baby Boy Obermiller, who will grow up knowing the love and legacy he left behind. He is also survived by his brothers, James (Linda) Obermiller of Loup City and John (Diane) Obermiller of Loup City; sisters, Connie (Roland) Shafer of Ord, Karen Shapley of Kearney, Marcia Kauk of St. Paul, Cheryl (Kenny) Albright of Ravenna, and Joanie Schneider of Lincoln; brothers-in-law, Richard Couton of Crocker, Missouri, Michael Couton of Durham, North Carolina; and sister-in-law Joann Couton of Wahoo.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Mary; an infant sister, Mary Margaret; and brother-in-law, Bob Couton.