Thomas Henry Ballweg

Thomas “Tommy” Ballweg passed away peacefully with his family by his side on November 16. He was born in the community of Webb to Ruby and Henry Ballweg and lived in nearby Mansfield for most of his wonderful life. Tommy farmed the land around Mansfield with his father, brother Jimmie, and cousin Terry Rutland. They, along with his sisters Janet and Judy and countless other friends and relatives maintained a sense of community and family that had been passed down to them from previous generations. He went on to start other businesses where he always worked hard and made new friends. Tommy had three children with his first wife Debbie, and Ann, Cole, and Dana became the central purpose of his life. He taught them the importance of family and that being a good parent was as simple as loving your kids more than anything. He was a great dad, amazing grandparent, an above-average youth basketball coach, and one helluva shuffleboard player. Tommy, known as “Gramps” to his six grandchildren, was the first call when anyone needed something, and he and his wife Yolanda loved having his grandkids over for movie nights and New Year’s Eve. He made friends everywhere he went, even with people who didn’t agree with his takes on politics and sports. Tommy was always hopeful, often saying “I can’t wait for tomorrow.” He will be missed.