Thomas John Ibbotson

Thomas J. “Tom” Ibbotson, 80, of Dowagiac, passed away on Wednesday, August 10, 2021, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Wednesday, August 18, 2021, at St. John's Lutheran Church, 603 McCleary St., Dowagiac, with Pastor David Schmidt officiating. Burial will follow at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens in Niles. Friends may visit with the family on Tuesday, August 17, 2021, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Clark Chapel, 405 Center Street, Dowagiac. Memorial contributions in Tom’s name may be made to St. John's Lutheran Church. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.clarkchapel.com. Tom was born July 18, 1941, in Dowagiac, to James and Iva (McClearly) Ibbotson. He graduated from Dowagiac High School in 1960. After high school, Tom proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1964 to 1969. On June 29, 1968, he married the love of his life, Margaret Richardson. Tom worked for Rudy’s, also known as, Modine, Sunstrand and lastly known as National Copper for over 43 years before his retirement. He enjoyed farming where he raised corn and pigs. He had a love for the outdoors and sports; he loved fishing, hunting and was an avid University of Michigan fan. Most of all he loved his family and friends and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Tom is survived by his loving wife, Margaret Ibbotson; children, Laura (Eric) Franz, Valerie (Chad) Rohdy and TJ (Kate Reitz) Ibbotson; grandchildren, Violet Franz, Auburn Franz, Katherine Rohdy and Ethan Franz; and sisters, Barbara Watson and Marion Glasser; he was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Kathaleen Francis Ibbotson; siblings, Floyd Ibbotson, Bert Ibbotson, Betty Benjamin, Madge Huntly, Pearl Ferrier, James Ibbotson, Hannah Abiney, Harriet Deitz and Janet Ferrier.