Thomas R. Foster, 78, a lifelong Paxton resident, passed away at 9:13 p.m. Saturday, December 3, 2022, at Gibson Area Hospital.

A service will be held at 11:00 am. Friday, December 9, 2022, at Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton.  Military honors will be accorded by the Paxton American Legion Prairie Post 150.  Final disposition will be held at a later date at Glen Cemetery, Paxton.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Thursday, December 8, at the funeral home.

Tom was born January 9, 1944, in Paxton the son of Ray and Irene (Lambert) Foster.  He married Deborah L. Peters December 6, 1970, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Cissna Park.  She preceded him in death July 27, 2019.

He is survived by three daughters, Bonnie (Jeff) Harrison of Paxton, Carol (Lannie) Emfinger of Columbia, Missouri, Erica Foster (Adam Altman) of Chicago; two grandchildren, Michael and Christina Emfinger; two brothers Steve (Vickie) Foster of Paxton and James W. Foster and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, a sister Margot Marshall and a sister-in-law, Dianna Foster.

Tom graduated from Paxton High School in 1963.  He served in the United States Army as a Sergeant in the 25 ^th Infantry Division during Vietnam.  Tom was a lifelong grain and livestock farmer.  He had also worked for Big Wheels, Elson's Sanitary and Jeld-Wen. His most recent passion was starting D & T Pheasant and Quail with his late wife, Debbie.

He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church.  Tom was a member of the VFW Post 4214 and the Elliott AMVETS.  He was also a member of Ford County Pheasants Forever and a charter member of the Loda Sportsman's Club.

Tom loved golfing and hunting with his family and friends.  He enjoyed taking daily rides with his brother, Steve, checking the crops and looking for wildlife. His family and friends will miss hearing his many stories.

Memorials may be made to the Ford County Pheasants Forever or Wounded Warrior Project.  Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com .