Thomas Michael Huss

Thomas M. Huss, 69, of rural Hutsonville, IL, passed away and was found at home on Wednesday, April 24, 2024. Born on November 7, 1954, in Newton, IL, Tom's journey through life was marked by dedication, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His education laid a strong foundation for his future. A proud 1972 graduate of Robinson High School, he continued to expand his knowledge at Lincoln Trail College, earning a Machine Shop Technology Certificate. His pursuit of education did not stop there; he further achieved an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Apprenticeship Technology.

These accomplishments were not mere milestones but stepping stones to a career that spanned 35 years with the Local #157 Plumbers and Steamfitters Union. From his start as an apprentice in 1981 to his role as a pipefitter welder across Illinois, Indiana, and Missouri, Tom's hands shaped the very infrastructure of our communities. His expertise as a certified welding inspector was unparalleled, and he took immense pride in nurturing the next generation of tradesmen as an instructor and training coordinator. The union was not just Tom's workplace; it was his brotherhood, his family. He served with dedication on the finance committee and was chosen to represent his union as a national delegate at their annual convention not once, but four times. Even after retiring in 2016, Tom's loyalty to the union never waned, continuing to attend meetings with the same zeal as ever.

Tom's life was a tapestry woven with vibrant threads of joyous moments and loving relationships. His marriage to Janet East on November 3, 1990, blessed him with his son, Tyler Wayne Huss, a beacon of pride and joy in his life. Tom's love for the outdoors was evident in the meticulous care of his garden. His green thumb coaxed life from the soil, yielding bountiful harvests of cucumbers, okra, zucchini, and sugar snap peas that he generously shared with all. The fruits of his labor, from blackberries to homemade grape jelly, were not just food, but symbols of his dedication and care. Tom's culinary skills mirrored his approach to life - meticulous, patient, and striving for perfection. His journey to master pie-making was a tribute to his late wife's legacy, a testament to his resolve to honor her cherished memory with action.

The loss of his beloved Janet on February 6, 2010, left a void in Tom's heart, yet it steered him back to his faith, finding solace and purpose within the community of the St. Elizabeth Catholic Church. His beagles, loyal companions in both hunting and life, also provided comfort and friendship through the years. As he aged, Tom's voice grew stronger, his opinions more pronounced, embodying the confidence of a man who had lived fully and learned much. His strength of character was the cornerstone of his family. He was the glue that held them together, forging unique connections with each member. To his nephews, he was more than an uncle; he was a father figure, a mentor, and a guiding light.

So, as we remember Tom Huss, let us celebrate the life of a man whose 69 years were a testament to the power of pursuing excellence, the beauty of a generous heart, and the strength of loving relationships. Tom Huss lived not just for himself, but for the world around him, leaving it a better place than he found it. Well done, Tom, and thank you.

Tom is survived by his cherished son, Tyler Huss (Robinson, IL); his sisters, Genie White (Stoy, IL), Angela Day (Robinson, IL), Nancy Truitt (Carmel, IN), and Reita & husband Bob Duvall (Hutsonville, IL); his beloved nephews & their spouses, Shannon & Chrystal White (Robinson, IL), Kevin & Carol White (Puyallup, WA), Reggie & Jodi Truitt (Robinson, IL), Will Truitt (Carmel, IN), and Nathan & Sherry Michl (Robinson, IL); his great-nieces, Lauren White, Audrey Truitt, and Kaylea Michl; his great-nephews, Vance White, Brody White, Aaron Truitt, and Ryan Truitt; his great-great-niece, Eleanor Cummins; by his sister-in-law, Beverly East; and numerous cousins.

He was preceded in death by his wife of nearly two decades, Janet (East) Huss; his parents, LeRoy & Florence (Hann) Huss; his brother, Donald Huss; his sister, Mary Beth Huss-Culler; his niece, Jennifer Rich; and his father-in-law & mother-in-law, Wayne & Alice East.

A time of visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 3rd, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. A funeral mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 4th, at the St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Robinson, with Father David Beagles officiating. Memorials may be made to a charity near and dear to Tom's heart, "Paralyzed Veterans of America", or to his family of faith at "St. Elizabeth Catholic Church". Memorial envelopes will be available at the funeral home and church.

Burial will be in the Oak Grove Cemetery.