Thomas N. Sillanpa

Major Tom Sillanpa was born on January 31,1929, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and went to be with God on November 13, 2025. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 60 years, Nellie; his father, Aarne Sillanpää; and his mother, Johanna Salminen Sillanpää, both of whom came to America from Finland. A first-generation American, Tom was proud of his Finnish heritage and spoke Finnish fluently, as well as Estonian, German, and Italian.

Tom is survived by his son, David Sillanpa (Michelle); his daughter, Sharon Sillanpa-Monroe (Tim); his grandchildren, Nathan Ouellette (Jordan), Karley Wininger, and Hannah Sillanpa; and his step-grandchildren, Caleb Monroe, Chris Horan, Nick Martin, and Jalen Reynolds.

Early in his career, Tom was the editor and publisher of a newspaper in St. Paul, Minnesota, and authored two books. Later, he dedicated his life to serving God and humanity as a Salvation Army officer for 38 years, alongside his wife. He officiated countless marriages, funerals, and child dedications. After graduating from the Salvation Army Training College in Chicago, he served first in Peru, Indiana. Following their marriage in 1959, he and Nellie ministered together in Streator, Illinois; Albert Lea, MN; Red Oak and Keokuk, Iowa; and Shelbyville, Terre Haute, and Logansport, IN, from which they retired.

In April 1996, Tom was named Guest Chaplain of the U.S. Senate by Senator Dick Lugar. He was honored to open the Indiana State Senate twice and the Iowa State Legislature once. Tom and Nellie each received the Sagamore of the Wabash award from Governor Evan Bayh of Indiana, upon retiring in 1994. Throughout his career, he was an active member of service organizations including the Lions Club, Kiwanis Club, and Rotary Club, often serving as editor of their weekly bulletins. He also lent his talents as a song leader and chaplain in Shelbyville. A self-taught musician, Tom played the cornet and the piano.

Tom was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and a cherished friend to many. Quick to share his faith, he was known for his warm heart, generous spirit, and wonderful sense of humor. He found joy in giving to others. He often recalled receiving a fifty-cent piece as a child, a moment that shaped his lifelong desire to bless children in need while sharing with them the love of the Lord.

A student of history, languages, music, and the Bible, Tom approached life with curiosity and gratitude. His love of history led him and Nellie to plan many of their family vacations around historical sites such as Gettysburg and Valley Forge. They also traveled internationally to many countries, including Finland -his family homeland - and Israel, a place of great spiritual significance to them.

The family will hold a private service at Crown Hill funeral home. Details for a celebration of life memorial for Tom and Nellie Sillanpa will be shared at a later date.

He will be remembered with deep affection by all who knew him. Tom would most want to be remembered for his strong faith and unwavering trust in God.