Thomas Edward Marchik

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas Marchik, who died peacefully in his home comforted by his daughter on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at the age of 80. Born on April 4, 1945, in Davenport, Iowa, to Edward and Dorothy Marchik, Tom’s life was marked by kindness, patience, and a remarkable ability to bring joy to those around him. His warm spirit and infectious sense of humor will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Tom’s greatest joy in life was his family. He was a devoted father to Marianne, David, Michael, and Sherri, and an adoring grandfather who relished every moment spent with his grandchildren, who knew him as Papa. His unwavering love and support for his family were immeasurable, and he would do anything for the people he cherished. He had a way of making even the most ordinary moments special, and he was the family videographer, documenting every occasion with care from the smallest gatherings to the most significant milestones.

An avid tinkerer, Tom had an unparalleled ability to repair or improve anything. His resourcefulness and problem-solving skills knew no bounds—if Papa couldn’t fix, it couldn’t be fixed. His passion for working with his hands extended to his love of model trains, which he enjoyed assembling and building a model train village that filled the spare bedroom.

A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Tom served our country from 1964 to 1970 before he was honorably discharged. His service was something he always carried with great pride, and he was deeply committed to the values of duty and service.

In 1968, Tom married his first wife, Janell Pollock, at St. Leo's Church in Fairfax, Virginia. From this union they had three children, Marianne, David, and Michael. Tom’s love for Janell was unwavering, and though she sadly passed away in 1986, he continued to hold her memory dear. In 1989, Tom remarried to Penny Russell in Davenport, Iowa. From this union, he gained a daughter, Sherri Schwarz, and together they created a loving home.

Tom enjoyed spending time with his neighbors at Timber Creek Condominiums where he served as Association President. He loved spending time in his second home in Alabama where he was able to enjoy spending time with his son’s family.

Tom had an exceptional career as an Electric Transmission System Operator at MidAmerican Energy, where he worked for 37 years. Known for his professionalism and work ethic, he retired with the respect and admiration of his colleagues.

Outside of his work and family, Tom had a deep love for history, particularly World Wars I and II, and he enjoyed learning about the past through his extensive reading and watching the History Channel. Despite being an Iowa State University alum, Tom was a proud Iowa Hawkeye fan, often joking about his rivalry with friends and family who supported the Cyclones. Throughout his life, Tom traveled widely, visiting all 50 states and 15 countries. His love for adventure and exploration was a defining part of his character, and he enjoyed sharing those experiences with his loved ones.

Tom’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his legacy of kindness, laughter, and love will live on in the memories of his family and friends. He was a man of few complaints, a calming presence in a sometimes chaotic world, and a steadfast friend and father who made everyone feel valued. His positive attitude, boundless generosity, and gentle spirit will be missed but never forgotten.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Paul Marchik and Dorothy Louise Marchik (Niebert); and his first wife, Janell Pollock.

Tom is survived by his three siblings, James Marchik, Mary Brown, and Ruth Screechfeld; his beloved wife of 36 years, Penny Marchik; his children, Marianne (Mark) Anderson, David Marchik, Michael (Yvonne) Marchik, and Sherri Schwarz; his grandchildren, Mürron, Jensen, Jonathan, Sebastian, Audrina, Kellan, Braedon, McKenna; and many treasured friends.

Rest in peace, Tom. You will forever be missed, but your memory will bring warmth and laughter to those who loved you. A visitation for Tom will be held on Monday, October 27, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Ankeny Funeral Home. Tom will be laid to rest on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Mount Calvary Cemetery, located in Davenport, Iowa.

Memorial Donations may be directed to the ALS Association.