Thomas Eugene Sander, 43, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 26, 2023, at the Oldorf Hospice House of Hiawatha. Celebration of Life: April 2, 2023 from 2:00 ' 4:00 p.m. at the new pavilion at Clarence City Park. The family is being cared for by Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Cedar Rapids.
Thomas is survived by his REM family and many loving family members.
Thomas was born August 2, 1979, in Iowa City, Iowa. He was known for his big hugs and being a jokester. He also enjoyed listening to Christmas music, seeing Santa Claus, and most importantly spending time with his family.
Thomas was preceded in death by his mother, Sharon; and grandparents, LeRoy (Betty) Sander.
Memorials may be made to the family.
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services – Cedar Rapids
Thomas was loved a whole lot by REM Iowa Community Services! We will be missing his raspberry kisses, his jokes, his singing, and most of all.. his smile! He lit up an ENTIRE room! It was a pleasure being a part of his life for the time I was with him. I’m very happy to know he is finally with his grandparents (he’s been asking to see them for weeks). Rest in paradise Tom! ❤️
Tommy, you were such a light in our lives. Always happy and ready to joke around. You will be missed, but I know you miss your mom and grandparents. We love you buddy!! Until we meet again
REM Iowa was LUCKY to have you in our services for 15 years! You lit up an ENTIRE room with your smile and jokes. You will be missed vey much.
REM Iowa Community Services, as well as Janel ensured your last days were WELL spent! You had a TON of your favorites.. Milkshakes, Ice Cream, Mashed Potatoes, and Pudding. We spent a lot of time singing you Christmas songs and laughing at your jokes. We are glad you had the best remaining days. Make sure to tell Grandma and Grandpa hi for us! We’ve heard so much about them!
I had the honor of working with Tom when he lived at New Horizons. Tom was always ready for adventure and asked us every day if he was going on an “outing.” He made us all laugh every day and taught us how to be better staff, advocates, and humans.
Oo my where to start.. I got to know Tommy when he lived at New Horizons… He was such a fun loving guy.. always wanted to go out and enjoy the day.. he had the best smile and laugh.. He got to go on a camping trip for the weekend with some of us N.H staff.. He loved it.. love just being outside… Loved swimming at the beach and just plain having fun with everyone.. fly high my friend.. love and miss you bunches
Oh Tom you were so much fun!! All those years we spent together at New Horizons. I always loved your smile, sense of humor, and your spitfire energy. You were one of the best humans and you will be a fantastic angel! You will be missed.. Love Pam and Brad!
I was lucky to get to work with you at two different times in your life. You taught me more than I could of ever taught you. Your tilted head with those big eyes and a bright smile could make anyone’s day. Not to mention that chuckle you did. Sometimes you could be quite demanding and other times you shared your great big heart. You will truly be missed by many and thought of often.