Thomas G. Short, 69, of Independence, Iowa died Friday morning, November 23, 2018, at the Veterans Medical Center in Iowa City, Iowa

Tom was born on September 16, 1949 in Independence, Iowa the son of Andrew T. and Lillian R. (Weber) Short. He attended the St. John’s Catholic Schools and graduated from the Independence High School in 1968. He served in the US Army in the 3rd of the 5th Calvary Division better known as the “Black Knights” receiving a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart during the Vietnam war serving until his discharge. On August 2, 1969 he married Peggy A. Gates in St. John’s Catholic Church, Independence, IA. The family made their home in Independence, IA. Tom was employed in the maintenance/carpentry department of John Deere for 38 years prior to his retirement in 2011. During his retirement Tom volunteered at the American Legion Hall in Independence.

He was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church, the American Legion Post, the VFW Post, and the Black Knights. He enjoyed Trout Fishing, going on long motorcycle rides on his Harley, Skilled Carpentry, Exercising, and studing the Bible. He loved spending time with his family and friends.

Tom is survived by his wife of 49 years; Peggy Short, four children; Jennifer (Bruce) Kinner, Andrea (Paul) Wheatley, Jeffrey Thomas (Angie) Short, Daniel Thomas (Jessica) Short. Thirteen Grandchildren; Randall, Aidan, and Luke Kinner; Addison, Reese, Drew, Olivia Wheatley, and Karsyn Wheatley-Johnson; Connor, Alayna and Logan Short; Amelia and Calvin Short. A great grandchild; Laiken Johnson. Two brothers; Jerald Short, Independence, IA., and Michael Short, Bettendorf, IA.

He was preceded inn death by his parents Andrew and Lillian Short, and a sister; Rita (Greg) Monahan.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM Thursday at St. John’s Catholic Church, Independence, IA, with Rev. David Beckman officiating. Burial will be in the St. John’s Catholic Cemetery. Friends may call from 3 to 8 PM Wednesday at the Reiff Family Center in Independence where a Rosary will be recited at 3PM a Military Memorial Service will be held at 7PM and a Parish Vigil Service will be held at 8PM.