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Thomas Venhuizen made his last mark on this earth on Tuesday May 14th, 2024, passing away at the age of 31. Thomas lived in Munster Indiana with his Mother JoAnne. He was born on September 11, 1992 just in time to see the dynasty of the Chicago Bulls make their historic run in the 90’s. Being the youngest of three was a dubious task, but he was up for the challenge and tortured his siblings with his gang of neighborhood children just “looking for stuff to do”. Except for Danielle who got him later and made him an uncle, which he was great at and loved so much.
Always loving animals, Thomas took care of his siblings’ pets and was a loving owner of a chocolate lab Madison which he described as “The best thing Neil has left at the house”.
Loud and boisterous, Thomas always made it known that he was in the house with laughs and excitement. His father Bernard, Step-Mother Rosalinda and Mother, JoAnne, installed virtuous moral fibers that transcended to his ability for empathy and self-reflection. He was a prime example of a “Good Kid”. Left with decades of fond and colorful memories are his siblings Alison and Cornelius Venhuizen.
Feel free to be as late as you’d like as Thomas was never on time for anything because of the aforementioned napping habits.
Sorry, Red, we did the best we could to take care of him and keep him out of your hair as long as we could. Back in your court now.
In lieu of flowers donations could be made to The Humane Society of Northwest Indiana, 6100 Melton Road, Gary, IN 46403.
Friends may visit with his family on Saturday, May 18thfrom 1:00-4:30PM at Calumet Park Funeral Chapel, 7535 Taft Street, Merrillville, IN. A Memorial Service will be held at 4:30 PM with Rev. Geraldine officiating.
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To JoAnne, Ali, and the family
I would like to give my condolences and let you know how much I’ve been thinking about you all. I would say without a doubt that Tom was one of the nicest people I had the privilege of knowing. Everyone loves Tom. He was truly one of the good guys and I will always remember him fondly. As a friend of the family, I just wanted to thank you for your kindness and hospitality over the last several years. I love you guys and just know that I’ll always be here if you need anything.
Steve Shurlow
Total heartbroken over the news of Tommy’s passing. I known Tommy since he was 3. My son and him was best friends. Tommy use to come to our house, go on vacation with us etc. He was a wonderful person. We lost touch through the years and talked here and there. Tommy will always be apart of my heart.
Tommy always had a happy face, and spoke very highly of everybody, no matter what…One of the best hearts I’ve known. Tommy will be missed
Tom was a joy to be around at all the family parties! He was a true gentleman, always a pleasure to be around. My fondest
memories will be his giant hugs, huge smile, and awesome personality! He will be greatly missed by all who were lucky enough to have known him. My heart goes out to Joanne and his whole family.
In Loving Memory of Tommy, a remarkable individual who touched the lives of all who knew him. He exuded kindness, empathy and had the best laugh. I won’t ever forget his goofiness. Rest in peace, cousin. You will be deeply missed, but your memory will forever live on in our hearts.
❤️
Words can’t really describe this total heartbreak. He was such a great person from head to toe and was taken from us way too early. Tom you will be deeply missed and never forgotten. Rest in peace my friend 🧡
Sending your family heartfelt condolences and strength during this difficult time. Tom was such a sweetheart and always had a smile on his face. You will truly be missed. Sending all of my love.
Angela Amador
To the Vanhuizen family, my deepest condolences to you all. I’m so sorry for your loss. Tommy was such a sweet kid as I remember growing up with Ali and him being around us often. He had such a wonderful sense of humor and always wanted to be helpful or make you laugh. You all are in my thoughts and prayers, I pray you can make it through this difficult time by remembering all the wonderful things Tommy brought into your life.
Sending all the condolences, love & understanding to Bernie, Joanne, Neil & Ali. I remember how much you all loved Thomas, he was a pretty special guy, super funny & such a kind heart! He always told me how pretty I was, that guy knew how to make a girl feel good about herself. Rest in peace Thomas & Blessed be 💙
Tom was ALWAYS making us laugh.
He had the biggest heart and loved his mom and whole family so stinking much. I’m beyond heartbroken that I won’t be hearing his big belly laughs from the other room anymore. He was the kind of guy who would do anything to help his friends. Goodness.. there are no words.
I love you JoAnne. So so so much.
I’ll always be his momita.
Tom was such a nice, funny person. I had so many good times with Tom over the years, so many laughs and memories. He was taken too soon, but his memory will always live on. My condolences to everyone in his family, words can’t do a tragedy justice but right they are all we have. We will all miss you Tom, you were amazing.
All my love to my best friend JoAnne and her family at this terrible time. My heart breaks with you. I’ve always thought of Tom as a happy-go-lucky guy. I’ll remember his great smile and contagious giggles and the best hugs ever, given even when he was in a hurry, which was almost always. I will miss him.
Known Thomas sense before Kindergarten and since all that time ago we’ve been best friends since those early years all that time ago. We shared a lot of the same hobbies and such, both of us a fan of anime and loved to sit down and watch our favorite one together far into the night. Gave me a lot of good memories and good times from those days, he even joined us on quite a few vacations, our favorite being a small place called Bass Lake, lots of good memories from there. I’ll miss you greatly, buddy and thank you for all the good memories and years you gave me, I hope you find peace in your next life…
Tom was such a good kid. Sweet, funny, kind and considerate. He will be truly missed by everyone that knew and loved him. My heart goes out to the family.
I’m so very sorry to hear about Tom’s passing. My thoughts are with you all.
All the conversations I had with Tom over the years were always genuine and kindhearted. He was very kind and compassionate. I would always love seeing Drizzy dog light up when Tom would show up for walks. He will be missed.
This is so heartbreaking. Tom was such a care taker with a heart of gold. He loved the animals and wanted to help everyone. He had a great sense of humor and was friendly to everyone most of the time. I’m so sorry that this has happened. I hope he’s found peace where he is.
Tommy was an remarkable individual who presence left an indelible mark on all those lucky enough to meet him. He had a childlike innocence coupled with a strong work ethic, making him a unique soul cherished by many.
I was lucky enough to spend last Christmas with Tommy. Tommy’s perspective on life was distinct; he saw good in everything. His appreciation for the world around him was profound, evident in his unwavering gratitude for even the smallest gestures. He was raving about his Amazon medical benefits like they were the best thing he’s ever seen. Also, I have never witnessed anyone drink a 12 pack of Mountain Dew faster than Tommy. He was 2 fisting them most nights. He kept telling me caffeine doesn’t affect him, while he was literally bouncing off the walls.
Reflecting now, I wish I had spent more time with Tommy. He was a special person. He saw the world a little differently than most of us, his good natured optimism was refreshing. Looking back, I feel I could have done more for Tommy. I could have been a better Uncle. I didn’t take the time to call or text Tommy like I should, which I truly regret because I will never get to do those things. He will be deeply missed but will live on in my heart. I am so sorry Joanne! I cannot imagine losing a child, it is heartbreaking. Same to Neil and Ali for losing a brother.
Tom was a great guy, had the purest soul and didn’t have a mean bone in his body. He loved animals, Taco bell, pizza, and Mountain Dew….and that is why i loved him. Always smiling and giggling, he was such a pleasure to be around. I appreciated his wittiness and kind heart. Tom you will be missed more than you will ever know. Even the dogs feel your absence. The loss of you is truly heart breaking. Until we meet again friend. Sending all of my love to Joanne, Ali and the entire family.
Tom was such an amazing person and I’m so grateful to have known him❤️ He always had a smile on his face and a good story to share! You couldn’t help but smile too whenever Tom was around. Dogs always know who the best humans are and it was heartwarming to see how much they loved Tom.
I am so sorry for your loss. Sending all of my love to Gigi, Ali and family
Words cant begin to describe how an amazing of a person Tom was! I was lucky to have him come onto my life when he was 9 years old as my little step brother. As the years passed, he became an uncle to my 2 children then 2 step children. As an uncle he exuded so much joy and enjoyed being with them. The memories I have of him are endless. Silly, sweet, caring, vivacious,lovable, positive and friendly were his personalities! He will be truly missed by so many… Fly high Tommy until we meet again. Love you kid!!
JoAnne, Ali, Neil.
I find it hard to put into words how I feel right now.
My heart hurts for each of you.
Tom was Fun loving, Kind, never said anything negative about anyone.
His smile lit up the room, his laughter was boisterous and contagious.
His heart full of kindness, to not only people but every animal he came across.
Oh my TOMMY, words can’t begin to express the sorrow we all feel. My only comfort is that I truly believe you are in heaven with our Lord & you are at peace.
I love you so very much. If there was one thing you could count on was that TOMMY WAS GOING TO MAKE US LAUGH. You were 1 of a Kind & had a HEART OF GOLD. Please stay close & looking after your mom, sending those signs that I know angels send us.
To JoAnne, Bernie, Ali & Neil… My love & prayers are forever with you all. May The Lord comfort you with His Love & Give you Strength thru these times & all the days ahead. We will all, one day, be reunited in God’s Kingdom & in the meantime try to think of the great memories Tom left behind. Hear his Laughter thru the storm & feel his love in the Sunshine. I love you all
Love, Tommy’s AUNTIE SAM❣️
Love to you Joanne and the family. What I remember most is what an awesome relationship you two had. You are an incredible mom and he was an incredible son. My deepest condolences.
Tom was unerringly kind and always happy to see you, whenever and wherever you happened to meet. He was just as excited to run into you in a grocery store parking lot as he was to see you at a party. He loved our dog (and all dogs) and was the best dogsitter anyone could hope for. I am so sorry to see him go.
Love and condolences to you, JoAnne, and to your whole family.
My sincere condolences go out to each and every member of the family. I pray that you receive the strength and comfort that only God can give. I had to pleasure of spending time with Tom recently, his smile & laughter lit up the room. It was a pleasure to be in his company. A trip that was already special just became a treasured memory . Joanne, thank you for opening your home & sharing your beautiful children with us. I’m am so grateful for the time we spent together. Rest in Heaven Tom. ❤️
I never remember seeing him in a bad mood, always a smile, always positive. We will all miss him but none more than his mother and father, brother and sister. Our heart goes out to them and pray for the comfort that our Lord provides. We all long for the day when we will be together in God’s presence.
Ali my heart goes out to you and your family during this time. I cannot begin to imagine what your feeling loosing a sibling. Tommy always was so sweet caring and helpful in anyway he possibly could be. Sending all my love you and your family. 🕊
Joanne and Ali my heart is breaking for you. Tom was definitely one of a kind so sweet, kind, not a mean bone in his body. The way he took care of all our dogs was amazing. Nala loved him, she would get so happy when he would get here, she knew the sound if his car door. He will be missed but definitely not forgotten. Tom, I know you are playing with Nala right now.
We are so very sorry for your loss. Our deepest condolences,
Manuel, Kathy, and Ana Nunez
To the Venhuizen family my sincere condolences for your loss. As long as I’ve known Tom he was always happy and joking around and laughing. He would call the office and greet me, ask how I was doing and then proceed to ask if his Mom was available. Of course if she wasn’t busy I connected his call to her. If she was with a patient, he would ask me if I would give her a message and then proceed to tell me what he was going to do or if she asked him to complete a task that he had completed it. Always polite and appreciative. Fly with angels Tom.
Tommy… How do I begin… Well… At the beginning…
A long time ago, in a Galaxy far away…I met 2 people…Red, and Joanne… Which begot a certain wonderful, Marvelous person… Known as Tommy.
So back in the day… We all had parties… And Red and Joanne threw a party!
THAT’S when I met Tommy…I connected right away… Like He was a son…I Said clean your glasses… They are greasy… You don’t want that… Well we TOTALLY yucked it up and joked around the whole time…
Well as the years went by… Every time I went to visit…I always hoped Tommy was there… And usually he was… And when I had to play pierogi fest one year…I was dehydrated… And Tommy helped me get Gatorade… Dragged my ass to a dollar tree… To get the needed nutrient!!!
Then we would talk NERD stuff (because we are both nerds)… Stuff like, magic the gathering… Star Wars… Whatever…
So much more… But no more room on this thread I think… Anyway…
I Love You Tommy…I love love love you… You know that…
Thank you for being in my life….I truly will miss you with all of my being… See you on the other side Lil brother…
Gint
So sorry for your loss. My God comfort you all through this difficult time.
I am so saddened by the news of Tom’s passing . He was a sweetheart. On my last visit, he was sharing how good things were going with his job and just chatting with me in the kitchen. He was resilient against negative energy … made him so kind, I think. My heart goes out to Joanne & family for the loss of Tom. Gone too soon 🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻❤️
Tom’s big laughter and kindness will be missed. He had a big heart and loved animals. I’m sad John won’t get to know his Uncle
Peace Be With You
The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are HIS everlasting arms.
Dt. 33:27
With sympathy and heartfelt prayer that God’s living presence will bring you comfort.
My heart goes out to you, Joanne, Ali and Neil. Sending love to you all. Tom had the kindest biggest heart and lit up the room with his smile when he walked in. He always made me smile and will be dearly missed.
My deepest condolences to you, Joanne, and your family. Over the past few years, it was an honor and a privilege to provide dental care for Tom. Every visit he made to the office was a ray of sunshine, thanks to his infectious energy. His warm smile and welcoming personality left a lasting impression on all of us. Tom will be profoundly missed, and my heart goes out to you during this difficult time.
Dr. Michael Smith
My condolences to the family for the loss of such a beautiful soul. Tommy was a great friend that I could always count on. He was such a great guy to be around, always having a great attitude, easy going, and so fun to joke around with. He had a special aura about him that boasted his kind, caring, unselfish, and funny personality. This was not only the case with people, but especially with animals as well. Tommy would house sit for us to watch the animals and he was literally the only one who could be around the shepherd. That dog would try to attack anyone that came over, but it could sense Tommy’s gentle nature, and didn’t have a problem with him. It was really something to see. I will miss going to concerts with him and us calling each other vulgar names when saying hello just to get a few laughs, we were always laughing about anything. I am a better person for knowing him and more sad of a person for not understanding why he is gone too soon. Rest in peace Tommy, you will always be remembered. Thanks for being such a great friend.
May the Universe wrap you and your family in its loving arms and give you comfort. What I remember most about Tom is his smile and gregarious laughter. When he was younger he loved telling jokes and stories and loved listening to tbem.
Thank you Tom for letting me be even if only a short amount of time your friend in this life. See you in the Summer lands.
So today we say goodbye
On angels wings you fly
To your happy place in the sky
I miss you now
And forever
So long to my freind Tom
I was deeply saddened to hear about Tom’s passing. Although I only had a few opportunities to meet him, I could tell he was a remarkable person. Please know that my thoughts are with you and your family during this incredibly difficult time. If there’s anything you need or any way I can support you, don’t hesitate to let me know.
Kurick
Dear Bernie, Joanne, Neil, Ali and family,
Many prayers for you. I completely trust Tom is at peace with the Lord Jesus Christ. Love one another was Jesus’s command. Let’s choose to continue to follow it!
There are no words to express the passing of Tom, a beautiful soul.
Love to you all.
I am so sorry for your loss, my heart is with matt & ally & joanne & the family. Our loved ones may leave us physically but they always stay in our hearts…I love you guys.
When you remember me,
it means that you have carried
something of who I am with you,
that I have left some mark
of who I am on who you are.
It means that you can summon me
back to your mind even though
countless years and miles may stand
between us.
It means that if we meet again,
you will know me.
It means that even after I die,
you can still see my face
and hear my voice
and speak to me in your heart.
For as long as you remember me,
I am never entirely lost.
🌙 Frederick Buechner
The first time I met Tom, he was still a kid, and he was exactly the same person then as he was his entire life. He was loud, boisterous, funny, wore his heart on his sleeve, and wasn’t afraid to share how much he cared. He loved dogs more than anything, and when I was complaining that I didn’t have someone to watch my dog, he said, “I’ll do it.” And this began the long and beautiful love affair between Tom and my dog Atticus. It wasn’t always hearts and flowers, like the time that Atticus swiped some chicken from the counter. “My fault,” Tom said later. “I wasn’t watching. Years went by and Tom hung with Atticus many times, and even when Atticus got very very old, he still greeted Tom like the puppy he used to be. And when Atticus died a few months ago, Tom was one of the first people to text me with condolences. He knew. I miss my dog. I miss Tom. I wish life weren’t so very painful.
Tom was one of a kind. His laugh was infectious and his heart open to anyone who crossed his path. I’ll never forget our time together, from the walks to the local convenience store, our fishing trips, or the wild Def Leppard and Journey concert where we sang our hearts out. He was one of my first friends and the memories we made will stick with me for the years to come. My thoughts go out to his family and friends, all of whom are better for having known him.
Dear family, I felt very sad to hear about Tommy’s passing away! I remember him as a happy, funny and caring person. He will be missed! I wish you love and strength to come over this enormous loss. My thoughts are with you! Big hugs for you all! ❤️ Gary/Gerhard
I just wanted to offer my condolences. You have been in my thoughts. Please try to take care of yourselves in this. Take time and remember him as he was ❤️
I will miss my buddy. He was always someone that could make people smile. I will miss him.