Tom’s long battle with COPD ended on Halloween October 31, 2020.
Tom was born in Anaconda, MT on May 22, 1953 to Thomas D Dewing and Alice A (Boehler) Dewing. He was a much-loved addition to the family. As a kid growing up in Anaconda there were endless adventures and friendships. He had lots of stories to tell about playing in the pits, floating in the creek, climbing in the hills. He always had a great sense of humor that only improved with age.
Tom met the love of his life while bartending at the Park Café, Laura Lewis. They were happily married June 4, 1977. They welcomed son Thomas Rex and daughter Selby Jean to complete their family. Many great memories of time spent at Echo Lake, Georgetown Lake, Crystal Park, rides in the Big Hole with family and friends. Fishing was often on the list.
Tom was a hard worker and tried several careers before he found his calling on the railroad. He loved being a locomotive engineer and his “drive” through Durant Canyon. He also loved his railroad friends.
Throughout his life he was a friend to many, with an open heart and without judgement.
A stoic harbor of generosity, and hard work, known to give the shirt off his back to someone he had just met if he thought they needed it. His work ethic, kindness and generosity merited 28 years on the railroad, and 20 years of sobriety. He liberally shared his sobriety, opening and holding the door for others to do the same while sheltered by his wisdom, patience and resilience.
Sorely missed by many, may we all live to exemplify his kindness and fortitude, and failing that, at least do our best one day at a time.
We can rest easy knowing his suffering has ended, and he is reunited with his wife Laura.
Much appreciated are the many friendships, and the comfort given by Hospice through his final struggle.
Survived by his mother Alice Dewing, son Thomas, daughter Selby, granddaughter Lauramarlene Imani, sister Debi Taylor, nephews Lance Taylor his son Logan, Chad Taylor and his family Libby, Wiley and Quin and extended family, father in law Rex Lewis, sister in law Leah (Frank) Moreni, brother in law Mike Lewis, nephew Jess Dailey, Jessica & Haggin, nephew Rex Lewis, Cara & Delaney, Niece Ariel, nephews Ryan & Ryley.
He is also survived by many special friends and cousins and enjoyed keeping in touch on social media.
Preceded in death by his beloved wife Laura, father Thomas D Dewing, Grandmother Dorothy (Astle) Dewing, Grandparents Henry and Emilie (Lankeit) Boehler, aunt Bernice, uncles Howard Boehler, Carl Boehler, Fred Dewing and James Dewing.
A celebration of life will be held on June 4, 2021 at the Washoe Park Pavilion at 5:00pm.
Please visit below to offer a condolence or share a memory of Tom. Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Tom and his family.
Service Schedule
Service Schedule
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Leah Moreni says
Thanks for being an awesome brother in law and loving my Sister , Thomas and Selby with your whole being. I will truly miss you but I am thankful for the boatload of memories and the BA-ZILLION laughs that I can relive any damn time I want. Love you Tom, now you and Laura can complete the beautiful life you started but was cut too short here, from above the stars… for eternity.
Lynda Boehler-Buermann says
Growing up together as cousins I’ve known you since you came into this world. I watched you grow from a darling little boy to an amazing man who exuded love and joy and enhanced the lives of many. You will be greatly missed “Tommy” but I am so thankful that your days of suffering are over and you are once again reunited with the love of your life, Laura. Forever in my heart Cuz.
Richard E Martin says
My condolences to Tom’s family especially his sis and mom. I saw him a couple years ago with his mom and sister at Echo. Tom was always positive and sure had fun that day. Rest in peace Tom.
Suzanne Parson says
I remember Tom well from h.s. and running into him recently (last ten years?) in Anaconda. He was a genuine soul, kind and fun. In our short visit he shared how much he loved railroading and it was a delight to see his joy. A fond farewell to a live well lived.
Suzanne Parson says
I remember Tom well from h.s. and running into him recently (last ten years?) in Anaconda. He was a genuine soul, kind and fun. In our short visit he shared how much he loved railroading and it was a delight to see his joy. A fond farewell to a life well lived.
Roger and Cathie Vauthier says
Breath easy Tom. Life has not been kind to you. We treasure the friendship we shared and will have the memory of you in our wedding almost 47 years ago.
May you rest in peace in the loving arms again of Laura. With deepest sympathy to the Dewing family.