Thomas Nelson Holt, 82, of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away Sunday morning, March 20, 2022, at home surrounded by his loving family.
Tom was the youngest son of Raymond and Irene Holt, born August 24, 1939. On June 18, 1960, Tom married
the love of his life, Patricia Ann Hilligoss, at St. Patrick’s Church, in Galesburg, Illinois.
Tom graduated from Corpus Christi High School in 1957. After high school, he served in the U.S. Army Reserve for three years. During this time, Tom began his plumbing apprenticeship and worked through to his retirement in 1995. Tom led numerous commercial plumbing projects throughout West Central Illinois. His work brought him great joy. He was a proud member of the Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 25 for over 64 years. During retirement he enjoyed traveling with Pat, playing golf, attending retiree social functions, having coffee with his golf friends, and attending Corpus Christi class reunions.
Tom’s greatest joy was to spend time with his wife and family. He showed this by supporting them in their varied interests. He was also an avid sports fan and always made sure to support his favorite baseball team, the Chicago Cubs. In addition, he was fond of reminiscing about old times, listening to his favorite country songs, leading the annual family Christmas Bingo, organizing the Big T Family Golf tournaments, rides in his truck with his grandchildren, walks to Swedoughs, and pontoon rides with his family.
He is survived by his wife Pat, four children, Tim (Joan) Holt of Columbia, MO, Cathy (Jeff) Welch of Alpha, Monica (Andy) Waters of West Lafayette, IN, and Jeff (Beth) Holt of Galesburg. Grandchildren Jessica (Brett) Krautmann, Jennifer (Daniel) Schmidt, Dr. Michael Welch, Matt Welch, Jenna Welch, Zach (fiancé Kelsey Stumler) Waters, Ben Waters, and Sarah Waters. Great grandchildren Karver Schmidt and Quinn Schmidt, and one brother John Holt. Tom is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Patrick, and sister Mary.
Tom was a member of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, and the American Legion.
Visitation will be on Friday, March 25 from 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm at Watson-Thomas Funeral Home. The funeral mass will begin at 10 am on March 26, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church with Father Lee Brokaw officiating.
Cremation will be accorded with a private family service in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The American Cancer Society, Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, or Costa Catholic Academy.
