Thomas James Stephans

Thomas James Stephans, 90, passed away at home with his loving wife by his side on 08-21-23. Born in Fort Wayne, IN to Anastas & Cleo Stephans, Tom attended Central High School class of 1951. He was drafted into the Army in 1953 proudly serving at Camp Carson (Colorado Springs, CO) in the MWTC (Mountain Cold Weather Training Command).

He spent 14 of his 25 years at Magnavox as a purchasing agent in Greeneville, TN. Tom also spent 20 years working at Lucas Oil Stadium, but above all, he was an avid follower of the University of Tennessee Volunteers (“Vols”) athletics. His love for the team came from his youngest daughter Patti (a “Vol” graduate of the University of Tennessee), who tragically passed away in September of 2021. Patti and her loving husband Ken (who continues to call his in-laws daily) lived in Rochester, NY but stayed close to Tom and Betty.

When Tom came home from his most recent hospital stay he and Betty spoke often of their many trips to Chicago, New York, Phoenix, Florida and to Seattle to visit with family. All 3 of their children were born in different states throughout their 71 years of marriage.

Around 35 years ago Tom & Betty finally found their forever home in Indianapolis, IN. They have been blessed with loving neighbors that have become family, visiting often. With Betty as his best friend and caretaker they fought hard against his battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Tom stayed strong in the end, never complaining, just wanting Betty by his side.

Tom is survived by his wife Betty, children Deborah and Tom Jr of Indianapolis, son-in-law Ken Wofford, Uncle Don Smith and many nieces and nephews who all had many happy memories with Tom over the years, especially at Lena and Elmo’s Farm near Fort Wayne. Tom is also survived by 2 granddaughters, 4 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Patti, sisters Lena (Elmo), Ruth (Steve), brothers Robert (Katherine), George (Connie) and Boris.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in honor of Tom with a message of “Life Well Done” to Central High School Alumni Association, Fort Wayne, IN.

Memorial services will be held on September 23rd at 1pm in the chapel at Greenlawn Cemetery Memorial Park, Fort Wayne, IN.