Thomas B. Sowka

Thomas Sowka, age 82, of Bluffton, SC and formerly of Decatur, IL passed away peacefully Sunday, September 30, 2018. He was born in Chicago to Ben and Gertrude Sowka.  Married in Port Smith, Arkansas on April 10, 1959, Tom was a devoted husband to Lois (Kyle) for 58 years. 

Tom graduated from the University of Illinois in 1958, where he earned a degree in history. While at the University of Illinois, he pledged and was a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity.  He also earned a CPCU, a professional designation in property and casualty insurance and risk management.

Tom was a United States Army veteran. He left for duty the day after he and Lois were married.  Lois joined him a month later and they were stationed in Babenhausen, Germany from 1959 to 1961.

Following service to his country, he began his career with Travelers and State Farm Insurance. He later became a partner of Bennett & Shade Insurance Company in Decatur, Illinois.

Tom was preceded in death by his father and mother. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Lois Sowka, his brother Dennis (Nancy) Sowka, brother-in-law Jim (Sandi) Kyle, and a host of extended family and friends.

Tom will be remembered for his love and devotion to Lois, his love of family and friends, his integrity and gentle nature.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

A celebration of his life is being planned for a later date.

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