Thomas E. Evans

Thomas E. Evans, age 87, of Gomer, passed away Thursday, March 12, 2026, at The Meadows of Delphos. He was born on November 10, 1938, in Lima to Edward A and Martha (Partch) Evans. They both preceded him in death. He was united in marriage to Wilma Long on October 25, 1964. She survives in Gomer.

Tom is survived by his three sons: Jeff (Stephanie) Evans of Lima, Bryan (Keri) Evans of Gomer, Steven Evans of Missouri, grandchildren: Lexie Evans, Jake Evans, Kristie Evans, Mitch Evans, Sydney (Nathan) Lange, great granddaughter: Willow Lange, brother: Robert (Carol) Evans of Florida, and sister: Mary (Scott) Ocke of Lake Side.

Tom was a veteran of the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany, serving from 1961 to 1963. He worked for FORD Motor Company as a machine repairman, retiring after 30 years on December 31, 1999. He served as a special deputy for the Allen County Sheriff’s Office for 40 years, where he was a Range Master. He received the Special Deputy of the Year award in 2005.

Tom was a faithful member of Gomer Congregational Church, where he served as deacon, trustee, and moderator. He snowplowed the church’s and many other driveways in the winter. He was very active in the Boy Scouts of America, serving in many positions, including Scoutmaster for Troop #84 for over 40 years. During this time, Troop #84 produced over 30 Eagle Scouts. He was also active with Cub Scout Pack #84 as Cub Master. He was awarded the Scoutmaster of the Year in 2000, as well as the Golden Beaver Award in 2017.

For over 20 years, he was a member of the FORD/UAW ramp crew, who built handicap accessible ramps for individuals needing them. Tom was a member of Hope Lodge #214 F&AM and the Order of the Eastern Star of Ohio #26. He was also active in 4H, the Welsh Museum, and many other community projects. In 2007, he won the Jefferson Award for his contributions to his community.

Tom was a collector of all things. He enjoyed woodworking and working on cars, as it seemed that nothing was too big for him to try. He was an avid dog and pet lover. However, what was most important to Tom was spending time with his grandchildren.

Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at Harter & Schier Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Pike Run Cemetery with military grave rites by the Delphos Veterans Council. Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday, March 16, 2026, at Harter & Schier Funeral Home with an Eastern Star and Masonic Service and an hour of visitation prior to services on Tuesday. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the Gomer Congregational Church or the Gomer Welsh Community Museum.