Thomas Michael Rea was born on May 2, 1946, in York, Nebraska to Thomas and Geraldine (Fansler) Rea and passed away on June 8, 2024, in Norfolk, Nebraska at the age of 78 years, 1 month and 6 days.

Tom grew up in Seward where he attended and graduated from Seward High School with the Class of 1964. After graduation, Tom spent his time playing Triple A baseball, dominating his short stop position, before being called to duty for the Army on October 25, 1967, to Seoul, South Korea. Upon returning home on May 28, 1969, he started his career for the State of Nebraska at the Lincoln Regional Center for the next 38 years in the maintenance department. Tom continued to center his life around his two sons, work, parents, and brother. He then entered his 15-year marriage to Katie, welcoming his last son and staying lifelong friends. Tom spread his love of sports to all his loved ones by coaching, mentoring, and umpiring his family as well as many youths in Lincoln. He was always willing to play a game of "Horse" with whoever was around.

Even in retirement he always stayed busy, working part-time delivering flowers for Russ's Market. Tom also enjoyed spending his retirement attending all athletic, musical, & theatrical events for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He enjoyed attending these with his longtime significant other, Sharon, never missing a birthday or holiday. Tom loved to be outdoors on a nice day and could be spotted riding around on his scooter in his neighborhood chatting with friends. He was known as a loving family man whose memory will be cherished.

Thomas is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Geraldine Rea.

Those remembering him in love are his significant other, Sharon Haith, Lincoln; brother, Dave (Penney) Rea, Minot, ND; sons,Michael Rea, Lincoln, Rick Rea, Onawa, IA, Kyle Rea, Lincoln; grandchildren: Erica Rea, Lincoln, Aaron Rea, Lincoln, Carmen Rea, Seward, Annabelle Rea, Seward, Trista Rea, Lincoln; great-grandchildren: Gavyn Holka, Lincoln, Luci Holka, Lincoln, Raelynn Holka, Lincoln, Elena Rea, Lincoln.

Memorial contribution may be made to the Rea family for future designations.