WALKERTON, Ind. — Thomas W. Patton, 67, of Walkerton (Fish Lake) passed away Saturday (Aug. 2, 2025) at his home, surrounded by family.

Thomas was born in Wilkinsburg, Pa., on May 30, 1958, to Virginia Wood Kerr and Wilmer Matson. Thomas’ father died while he was very young and his stepfather, Herbert Patton, adopted him as his own.

Thomas graduated from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, Pa., and worked as a territory sales manager for Philip-Morris USA. On June 28, 1997, he married Mary Gilligan-Patton in South Bend, sharing 28 years of marriage. Tom and Mary resided in Granger until 2002, then they moved to Fish Lake and they loved living on the lake.

Thomas is survived by his loving wife, Mary; his stepdaughter, Erin (Tony) McGann-Allberry, and stepson, Michael (Kristen) McGann; and his grandchildren Angelina Demetriou, Alyssa Demetriou, Lucas Allberry, Kyra McGann, Addyson McGann, Adyn McGann, Mason McGann and Willow McGann; as well as his siblings, Jeanne Keaton, Bill (Patricia “Pat”) Matson and Marianne (Paul) Gruzlewski. Tom also leaves behind many nieces whom he loved so much. Tom was preceded in death by his mother, father and stepfather.

Tom was an active member for years at North Liberty Christian Church, where he ushered and volunteered for church functions. Tom loved anything Pittsburgh and was a die hard fan of the Steelers, Pirates and Panthers ball games.

One of Tom’s cousins was Bobby Allison and Bobby’s sons Davey and Clifford were all NASCAR racers. He enjoyed going to many of their races during his lifetime and watching NASCAR races on TV. In high school Tom played basketball, softball and football, and he received the first Gary Grassi Award in football. Tom had a passion for fishing, hunting and playing golf. Tom also enjoyed going to his grandchildren’s soccer, baseball and basketball games and always being there to cheer them on.

Tom and Mary enjoyed their small getaways, especially up to Michigan, and vacations with their children, grandchildren and family.

“That whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life” – John 3:15

“Though you are no longer with us, your spirit lives on in every memory, every story and every heart you touched.”

Visitation for Tom will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. EST Monday (Aug. 11, 2025) at North Liberty Christian Church, 65225 IN-23, North Liberty. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. EST on Tuesday (Aug. 12, 2025) at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Tom’s name may be made to the North Liberty Christian Church, 65225 IN-23, North Liberty, IN 46554; or to the American Cancer Society. Palmer Funeral Home-North Liberty Chapel is assisting the family. Online condolences to the family may be sent via the Palmer Funeral Homes website at palmerfuneralhomes.com.