Thomas E. Atkins

Thomas E. Atkins, 69, of Terre Haute passed away January 10, 2019 at his residence.  He was born in New Albany, IN to Ernest E. ’Gene’ and Edna Williams Atkins.  He was a plant engineer at Gartland Foundry.  Tom was a member and former trustee of Free Life Community Church.  He also was a US Army veteran of Vietnam, was an Eagle Scout, a past Boy Scout Master and Assistant Master, member of the Order of the Arrow, past Master Counselor of the Order of DeMolay, and a member of the American  Foundry Society.  He is survived by his father of Paducah, KY, his wife Ruth (Rice) Atkins, a son Jefferson ‘Jeff’ Atkins of Louisville, KY, three step-sons Gregory Paauwe, David Paauwe, and Paul Kleiser; a daughter Tessa Herrington of New Albany, IN, and a step-daughter Sarah Paauwe Gallion of Terre Haute;  sisters Sandra Drewery of Eaton, OH and Bonnie Atkins of Paducah, KY.  His grandchildren are Alexander, Zane, Cerek, Caleb, Andrew, Emma, and Mason.  He also has four great-grandchildren.    Funeral services will begin at 10 a.m.  on Friday, January 18, 2019 at Free Life Community Church located at 20th and Hulman Streets in Terre Haute with Rev. Dan Willis officiating.  Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery with VFW #972 conducting military rites.  Visitation will be on Thursday, January 17, 2019 in DeBaun Springhill Chapel from 4-8 p.m. and from 9 a.m. until service time on Friday at the church.  For those who choose,  memorial contributions in his honor can be made to the Free Life Community Church.  Online condolences may be offered at www.debaunfuneralhomes.com

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