Tom J. Bishop Obituary
Tom J. Bishop Sr. left to join his beloved son and daughter in Heaven on Tuesday February 14, 2023.
Tom was born in Effingham, IL on October 21, 1953, to Donald and Bessie (Warner) Bishop. He was the eighth of ten children. Tom spent time growing up in Mason, Elwood, Braidwood and a little time in Indiana. He was a 1972 graduate of Joliet East High School.
As a teenager Tom spent his time learning the art of masonry eventually starting his own union business, Bishop Masonry Inc. Tom was a successful and respected businessman for many years. Tom’s first bout with cancer ended his business days but not his life. He fought a long and courageous battle with the effects of his extended treatments giving him 16 extra years with his family. A stronger man you will not meet.
Tom always enjoyed outdoor activities. Many years were spent camping, fishing, waterskiing, riding his motorcycle and hunting Morell mushrooms with his family. Fishing on the Saint Joe River in Michigan was one of his greatest joys.
Most of all Tom loved his family. His grandchildren brought him much joy in his later years. It was a normal thing to find him sitting on the floor playing cars or in his chair babysitting baby dolls. He will be truly missed by his whole extended family.
Survived by his loving wife of 45 years Diane (Kezerle), sons Tom Bishop Jr (Daniela), Jacob (Haley) and daughter Hannah (Andrew & his daughter Tessa Brandt). Grandchildren Mason and Ruby Bishop, Carter Bishop and Ivy Brandt. He is also survived by his sisters Pat, Peggy, Judy, Betty and brother Charles (Connie). Sister in-law Karen Kezerle, brother in-law Robert (Sally) Kezerle. Numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces/nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. Lots of love from an extended family.
Preceded in death by his son, William and daughter, Abbey. His parents, Donald and Bessie, brothers William and Richard, sisters Evelyn, Linda and in-laws, Robert and Betty Kezerle.
A visitation for Tom will be held Saturday February 25, 2023, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 202 W. Jefferson St, Morris IL, 60450, from 10:00 AM until time of service at 1:00 PM. A luncheon will immediately follow the service at Bethlehem Lutheran Church.
An online guestbook has been made for the family, where you may sign the guestbook, share memories and photographs. You can access this by visiting the website at http://www.ucdaviscallahan.com. Arrangements have been entrusted with U.C. Davis-Callahan Funeral Home, 301 W. Washington Street, Morris, IL.
