Thomas M. Strawbridge

Thomas M. Strawbridge, 96, of Manito, passed away at 8:39 p.m. on Sunday, May 19, 2024 at Carle Methodist Hospital in Peoria. He was born on February 6, 1928 south of Manito on the Mahr farm to Thomas J. and Ella (Squire) Strawbridge. He married Wanda L. Ripper on August 4, 1963, and she preceded him in death on May 27, 2013.

Mr. Strawbridge is survived by one daughter, Tami (Steven Zawoysky) Brutlag; and grandson, Jacob Brutlag, all of Alpharetta, Georgia. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife.
Mr. Strawbridge was a member of St. John’s Sand Prairie Lutheran Church. He graduated from Manito High School in 1947 and served in the Air Force National Guard from 1948 until 1951. He farmed with his father and was in the trucking business for 10 years and the fertilizer business for another 10 years. He worked for Wistehuff John Deere Implement Company for 19 years and Vance Farms and Trucking before retiring in 1999. Thomas was a member of Hill-Palmer American Legion for 52 years. He was also a volunteer firefighter with Forman Fire Department for 52 years. He was an avid bowler, fisherman, boater, camper, and truck driver. Tom also enjoyed playing euchre with family and friends
Memorial services will be held on Friday, May 24, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Sand Prairie Lutheran Church, with visitation one hour prior to the services. Burial will follow the services at Meadow Lawn Cemetery in Manito. Rev. Chris Sansom will officiate. Military rites will be provided by Hill-Palmer American Legion.
Memorial contributions may be made to Good Shepherd Lutheran School in Pekin. Online condolences can be left for his family at www.hurleyfh.com.
Maas-Hurley Funeral Home in Manito is in charge of arrangements.