Tom was born on October 28, 1950, in Des Moines, Iowa to Edward Murray Heston and Josephine Katherine Heston. After graduating from Ankeny High School in 1968 he enlisted in the United States Army and served during the Vietnam War. After serving in the Army, Tom worked at Firestone as a pipefitter and was a proud member of USW Local 310L in Des Moines. He retired in April 2010.
Tom was known for his wit and sarcasm and was the master of not letting what others thought of him guide his life. He enjoyed watching Nascar races, riding his motorcycle, playing cards, spending time with his grandchildren, and was always there when you needed to talk. Underneath his tough exterior was a heart of gold. He was always quick to help others when they needed it. One of his favorite sayings was “If I have it to give, take it, because I can’t take it with me when I go.”
Tom is survived by his three children Renee Johnson (Alleman), Keith Heston (Des Moines), and Hannah Tomlinson (Des Moines); five grandchildren Gavin Johnson, Dalton Johnson, Harley Heston, Michael Tomlinson and Aurora Tomlinson.
Tom is also survived by his brothers Rodney Heston (Brenda), John Heston, and sisters Sandy Heston and Joyce Heston and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Josephine Heston, sons Thomas John (TJ) Heston and Todd Heston, sisters Ellen Piper, and Patricia Harms, and his beloved wife and soulmate Jacki Heston.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 16, 2025, from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM at McLaren’s Resthaven Funeral Home, 801 19th Street, West Des Moines, Iowa 50265.
A graveside service will be held on Monday, March 24, 2025, at 1:00 PM at McLaren’s Resthaven Cemetery, 801 19th Street, West Des Moines, Iowa 50265.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in my father’s honor to our nation’s veterans.
