Thomas Owen Billheimer

Thomas Owen “Tom-O” Billheimer, age 65  of South Bend, passed away at Sprenger Health Care on December 8, 2020.  Thomas was born February 4, 1955 in Richmond, Indiana to the late Casper Owen and Lyda Love (Jackson) Billheimer.  He was a graduate of John Glenn High School and later earned his degree in Medical Laboratory Technology from Ivy Tech.  On August 2, 2008, he married Sheila Bull in the Shijiori Gardens in Mishawaka.    

Sheila survives, along with their children Thomas Owen Billheimer II of Chico, CA, Aaaron Christopher Billheimer of South Bend, Katrina (Jason) Evans of Mishawaka, John (Monica) Smith and Amanda Ing, both of North Judson, IN, and Missy McQueary of Knox, Indiana.  Surviving as well are 16 grandchildren, his siblings Timothy Billheimer of Osceola, Stephen (Mary) Billheimer of Indianapolis, IN, Ronald Steinhoff of South Bend and his former wife Diana (David) Johnson of Mishawaka. He is also survived by his special “fur baby’ Axel.  Preceding him in death were his parents Casper Billhiemer and Lyda Claxton.

Friends may visit with the Billheimer family 2 hours prior to the 2pm Celebration of Thomas’ life on Saturday, January 2, 2021 at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola.

Thomas was employed with Wheelhorse, Bishops, drove delivery truck for Strauss Bakery, Lakeland Medical Center and finally the South Bend Medical Foundation where he retired in 2003.  In his spare time, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.  He and Sheila attended the Niles United Pentecostal Church and Life Tabernacle in Elkhart.  Services will be streamed in real time for those who may not be able to attend.  Please follow this link http://us02web.zoom.us/j/5746748689 and the IT staff of Cruz Family Funeral Home will admit you into the virtual meeting room beginning 30 minutes prior to the service. 

Thomas was blessed with the gift of music from an early age.  His family formed a trio when he was around the age of 2 and his love for music and singing never ceased.  He was a multi-talented musician who played the saxophone, guitar and piano, and also had a keen ear for harmony.  His talents were shared with many at Karaoke nights throughout the area where he performed as “Tom-O.”  Thomas also had an opportunity to share his talent with the world when he earned the chance to try out for “The Voice” on NBC. 

The Billhiemer family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to help cover Tom's final expenses. To make a donation to the family, please use the DONATE button at the top of Tom's obituary.  To leave a message of comfort, light a virtual candle, or share a memory of Thomas, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.

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