Thomas Owen Kuhl

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas “Tom” Owen Kuhl, beloved son of Mary (Owen) and Capt. Marion Kuhl, on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at the age of 80. Born on May 5, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois, Tom spent most of his life in Mattoon before moving to Springfield, where he created many wonderful memories and friendships.

Tom attended St. Joseph Parochial School in Mattoon, IL, graduated from Mattoon Senior High School in 1962, attended The University of Illinois, and graduated from Eastern Illinois University, before proudly serving his country in the U.S. Army from October 1968 to July 1970, which included a year in the Republic of Vietnam. He worked for Illinois Consolidated Telephone Company for a total of 26 years. Then, he worked for the State of Illinois for over 18 years. Tom was part-owner of Knowles Cafeteria and taught as adjunct faculty at Lakeland College in Mattoon, IL. He was a member of Knights of Columbus 3rd Degree, beginning in 1973 and serving as their treasurer from 1974 to 1998, and a member of Knights of Columbus 4th Degree, beginning in 1974 and serving as their faithful comptroller from 1976 to 1998. Tom was also a member of Mattoon Rifle & Pistol Club and the Moose, Eagles, and Abraham Lincoln Gun clubs.

He was previously married to Diana Lou Glasscock (deceased) in 1971 (they welcomed two children, Christina Kuhl Wools and John Thomas Kuhl). On May 19, 2000, Tom married Jan (Hinton) Lane, and the couple enjoyed 25 beautiful years of marriage, filled with travel and adventure. They visited incredible places, including Alaska, Hilton Head, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Arizona, and took special trips to see John's family in South Carolina.

A dedicated member of St. Agnes Catholic Church, Tom served as an usher, sharing his welcoming spirit with the community. He was also an election judge for 28 years. Tom had a passion for the outdoors, having been a Boy Scout in his youth and serving as president of the Rifle Team in high school.

Tom's commitment to his fellow veterans was evident through his participation in the Lincoln Land Honor Flight program, where he flew to Washington, D.C. to visit the memorials dedicated to their service. His involvement with this program continued as he helped others experience this meaningful journey.

He was a multifaceted individual who enjoyed riding and working on motorcycles and Corvettes, as well as tinkering with cars, computers, and firearms. It was said that there was nothing he couldn’t fix. He found great joy in spending time with his grandchildren, sharing a loving bond that will forever be cherished.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; step-daughter, Kristen Lane-Brunson; and two step-grandchildren, Jocelyn and Myles.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jan; children, Christina (Matt) Kuhl Wools and John Thomas (Angie) Kuhl; stepson, Robert Lane; grandchildren, Jacob and Jared Wools, Elise, Ian, and Celine Kuhl; and many close friends who will remember his kind heart, infectious laughter, and unwavering spirit.

Visitation: Family will receive friends from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield, IL. Visitation will begin with a Prayer Service.

Mass of Christian Burial: 10:00 a.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025, at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 245 N. Amos Ave., Springfield, with Rev. Daniel J. Bergbower, celebrant.

Additional Visitation: Family will receive friends beginning at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 320 N. 21st St., Mattoon. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Mattoon with Rev. Daniel J. Bergbower and Rev. John Titus, concelebrants. Military honors will be provided by the Army Department of Defense.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Land of Lincoln Honor Flight and St. Agnes Catholic Church, in honor of Tom’s legacy of service and commitment to his community.

Tom Kuhl’s legacy of love, service, and dedication to family will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.