Thomas Richard Bear's Obituary
Thomas "Tom" Richard Bear, age 92, of Centerville, Iowa passed away Wednesday, August 19, 2020 at Centerville Specialty Care.
Tom was born October 29, 1927 in Centerville, Iowa, the son of Dewey and Anna (Peterson) Bear. Following high school graduation, Tom entered the United States Army. He served his country faithfully during World War II with the duty of Drill Instructor.
Following his honorable discharge from the service, Tom married the love of his life, Elizabeth "Betty" Ann Morris. They entered their union of marriage on July 16, 1950 at the St. Marys Catholic Church in Centerville.
Tom spent many years working in the private sector as a co- owner of Jack Morris Motors in Centerville with his brother-in-law, Jack Morris JR.
In his free time, he enjoyed many passions, including hunting, fishing, and building model steam engines. Tom was a long-time member of the St. Marys Catholic Church in Centerville.
Left to honor his memory include his two children, Morris Richard Bear of Centerville, and William "Billy" Bear of Centerville; two grandchildren, Dustin Richard Bear of Nashville, Tennessee and Dane Thomas Bear of Centerville; as well as a brother, James "Jim" (Barbara) Bear of Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Dewey and Anna Bear; his wife, Elizabeth "Betty" Bear on February 18, 2018; and a baby sister, Eleanor.
According to family wishes, cremation has been accorded. There are no scheduled services at this time. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to St. Jude Childrens Hospital and may be given to Lange Funeral Home and Crematory, 1900 S. 18th St., Centerville, Iowa, 52544. Condolences may be shared online at www.langefh.com.
No services will be held at this time
What’s your fondest memory of Thomas?
What’s a lesson you learned from Thomas?
Share a story where Thomas' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Thomas you’ll never forget.
How did Thomas make you smile?