May 17, 1948 – September 24, 2024
Thomas Gilner, 76, long time resident of Kokomo and Pendleton, Ind., passed away late afternoon on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, nine short months after his beloved bride, with his loved ones by his side. Thomas was born and grew up in Grand Rapids, Mich. He was the son of Robert and Lois (Menish) Gilner. Thom was married for 54 years to Brenda, but they had been a loving couple since their high school years.
Thom was preceded in death by his dad, mom, and older sister, Sue, and leaves behind sister, Nancy (Bill Atwell). Both Thom and Brenda were the immensely proud parents of their three daughters: Amanda A. (Doug) Cuttell of West Lafayette, Ind., Emily S. (Mike) McClelland of Westfield, and Meagan G. (Chris) Wilson of Noblesville.
In addition to their own children, Thom absolutely adored being “Popa” to his grandchildren: Natalie and Zach; Hagan and Campbell; Gavin (Bailey), Aiden (Samantha), Clayton, Ethan, Taylor, and Penelope.
Thom earned his bachelor’s degree in engineering from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. He bled maize and blue even though he superstitiously only watched the games through the cracks of his fingers (if he allowed himself to watch them at all). He then continued his education at Ball State University, earning his MBA. After college, Thom and Brenda moved to Kokomo, Ind. There, he spent a career-long journey with Delphi/General Motors as an electrical engineer – designing, testing, and perfecting some of today’s most beneficial console car features. He retired in 2008 after dedicating 42 years of hard work.
To know Thom was to know a true, kind soul. He was a righteous and honest human and always did the right thing. He lived in a household full of women and showered them with nothing but love, gratitude, generosity, and everlasting support. He paved a strong path toward a life centered around family. He was the epitome of a man, husband, Dad, and Popa.
No visitation is planned. A celebration of Thom’s life is scheduled for Sunday, November 17, 2024, any time between 1 and 3 p.m. at the Viking Meadows Club House, 15757 Viking Meadows Drive, Westfield.
In lieu of flowers or donations, the family asks that you follow in Thom’s footsteps by being honest, showing strength, and everlasting support to others.
Inside Thom’s wedding ring are the words, “Together, now and forever.” The only comfort those of us he left behind now have is that he and Brenda are back together. Now and forever. Here is to Thomas Gilner … May you go with your angel.
Condolences: randallroberts.com