Thomas Ryan Ewick

Thomas Ryan Ewick, 50, passed away unexpectedly at home on January 1, 2026, following a heart attack. Born on January 31, 1975, in Terre Haute, Indiana, Tom’s family later made their home in Brownstown, Indiana, where many of his lifelong values of hard work, service, and integrity were shaped. He and his brother and sister were raised in a family guided by faith, with his mother being a devoted homemaker and his father serving as a minister.

Tom attended Brownstown Central High School where he participated in basketball, track, and cross country. After graduating from high school in 1994, Tom attended Indiana State University, earning a degree in Political Science. A disciplined and driven individual, he was both a certified lifeguard and a competitive marathon runner, pursuits that reflected his strength, endurance, and determination.

While working full-time as a court clerk, Tom attended Indiana University School of Law. He went on to pass the bar examination in both Indiana and Illinois, beginning a respected legal career. His first job after law school was in 2002 at the office of the Illinois State’s Attorneys Appellate Prosecutor in Springfield, Illinois where he drafted appellate briefs and delivered oral arguments before the Appellate Court. Tom transitioned into private practice for several years handling workers compensation cases. His work later brought him back to civil service where he served as a supervisor in the Civil Division of the Office of the Illinois Attorney General. In his final professional chapter, Tom practiced family law at Stange Law Firm in Springfield, Illinois where he was known for his empathy, exceptional legal research, writing, and trial advocacy.

Never content to be idle, Tom spent many weekends working a second job at Academy Sports + Outdoors, a job he genuinely enjoyed.

Tom enjoyed fantasy football, playing and watching golf, and following NASCAR. At home, he found joy in practical problem-solving by fixing lawn mowers for fun in the backyard while spending time with his children and family.

Above all, Tom was a devoted father and family man. He shared an 18-year life partnership marked by love, loyalty, and shared purpose. He was deeply loved by his children and by all who knew him. He will be remembered for his sharp intellect, steady presence, generosity of spirit, and quiet humor. His passing leaves a profound and monumental absence for his family and those who knew him.

Visitation & Funeral Services: The family will receive friends from 4:00-6:00 pm on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at Bulter Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL 62703.