Thomas William Schipkowski, 74, of Litchfield, formerly of Edwardsville, died on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023, at his residence.
No services are planned. Litchfield Family Funeral Service is assisting the family with arrangements.
Mr. Schipkowski was born Dec. 23, 1948, in Edwardsville, the son of Walter and Gladys Mae Brooks, and attended Edwardsville High School. In 1976, Mr. Schipkowski married Barbara Bower in Collinsville, and went on to have three children and three grandchildren.
Mr. Schipkowski had an adventurous spirit. He enjoyed music, photography, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, Corvette cars and the occasional practical joke. In his earlier years before attending classes at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, he spent time exploring Florida, California, and the Appalachian Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Mr. Schipkowski was a provider by nature, was quick to lend a helping hand, and went above and beyond to make sure his family was comfortable and supported. As a lineman and troubleshooter for over 35 years at Illinois Power Company, now Ameren Illinois, he was known for having an outstanding work ethic and being an expert in his work.
He worked tirelessly to guarantee his family experienced memorable vacations and loving holidays, as well as nurtured opportunities for his kids’ future. As a reliable maker and creator, Mr. Schipkowski could build a barn, fix a car, and remodel a kitchen from the ground up, among many other things.
Knowing his sons’ passion for playing outside and wanting the best for them, Mr. Schipkowski installed impressive basketball and sand volleyball courts at the family’s Edwardsville property for his boys to enjoy as they grew up. He was a generous father.
As tough as Mr. Schipkowski was, he also had a kind and gentle character. He loved animals, especially dogs, and was a doting, devoted grandfather.
In retirement, he refined his golf game, spent precious time with his three beloved grandkids and spoiled his granddogs.
Mr. Schipkowski was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his loving wife, Barb of Litchfield; sons Joshua (Sara) Schipkowski of St. Louis, MO, Nathan Schipkowski of Litchfield and Jason (Kitty) Schipkowski of St. Louis, MO; and three grandchildren Cash, Waylon and Harlan; siblings, Nancy Carter of Edwardsville, Carla and Jim Bollinger of Huntley, Alan and Diane Schipkowsli of Crossville, TN, Mark Schipkowski and Steve Horvath of St. Peters, MO, Michael and Lise Schipkowski of Glen Carbon and Jeffrey and Karen Schipkowski of Edwardsville; and several nieces and nephews.
Donations in Tom’s honor may be made to Paws Care, located in Montgomery County, at www.pawscare.org
