Thomas D. Hewitt

In Memory of

Thomas D. Hewitt

November 16, 1941 - February 2, 2018

Obituary

Thomas D. Hewitt passed away unexpectedly Friday, February 2, 2018, surrounded by family. Tom leaves behind several loved ones, including his daughters and son-in- laws, Erin and Paul Stucky, Abby and Kevin Steffens, and Caity Hewitt. He will be lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Alexandra, Jack, Cole and Caroline Stucky, and Warren Steffens. He will be greatly missed by his loyal companions, his cherished dogs Sophie II and Foster. Tom is survived by his sister and best friend/brother-in- law, Marsha and Elmer Gibson and their three daughters: Ginger (Greg), Pam, and Michelle. Some of Tom’s passions included telling tall tales, starting water balloon fights, and spending time with his friends and family. Tom proudly served in the military during the Vietnam War. Upon returning, he continued teaching and coaching at Shawnee Mission East and Lee’s Summit High school where he impacted the lives of many students. Tom utilized his coaching skills as a sales executive at Mosby/Elsevier for over 30 years. Tom loved many things including golf, tennis, and cheering on his grandchildren at their sporting events, however most importantly he loved to love.
>
>> A visitation will be held on February 9th at Langsford Funeral Home in Lee’s Summit, MO at 1:00 p.m. with the service following at 2:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to KC Unleashed Pet Rescue in Mission, KS.

Condolences

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

In remembrance of an honorable, accomplished, compassionate, clever man who is loved by many.–CHeryl

Tom(Big Red) and I first met in 1963 at CMSU. After graduation, we reconnected in 1966 when we taught and coached at Shawnee Mission East H.S. In 1972, we were back together at Lee’s Summit H.S. teaching and coaching. In 1982-83, when Tom was National Sales Director for C.V. Mosby, he hired me as the Midwest Regional Sales Manager. Although, after those years, our time together was diminished we stayed in contact with periodic phone calls, crazy birthday cards(my b-day is one week earlier) and the occasional, unforgettable golf trips with Bob Dennis and Elmer Gibson. Some of the funniest and craziest moments of my life were spent with Big Red. He was a life-long friend that will truly be missed. My wife, Karen, and I extend our deepest sympathy to his entire family.

I had the pleasure of seeing Tom’s leadership in action while at Mosby. While I did not work directly for Tom, I had many friends who did and who had great respect and affection for him. Later in my career, when Tom was doing work for MD Consult I had the opportunity to interact with him more and I was impressed by how kind, fair and transparent he was. I hope the warm memories of Tom and his impact on family and friends that will be offered in the coming days provide comfort. With sympathy, Christy Wilson

I wish Michael was still on earth to talk about Tom. Mike worked with Tom at Mosby. I remember spending time at his home and he at ours in St. Louis. Mike enjoyed working with Tom but especially playing golf. I wish I could post a picture I have of them playing at a golf tournament. He was genuinely one of the good guys. My condolences to his family and loved ones. I know he will be missed. Sue Riley

Tom and I coached basketball together at Shawnee Mission East. Coaching plus our time teaching drivers ed. is filled with so many good memories. Mary and I will remember all the good times spent with Tom, including a few ski trips, car rallies, and SME faculty events. His outgoing personality, sense of adventure and concern for others will be missed.

I have known Tom from 1974 when I hired and supervised him at Mosby. Over the past few years I enjoyed my two day July golf outings with Tom at his home in Lee’s Summit and will miss those times of good stories and several good laughs at who we were and who we became over the years. Tom was truly one of the class acts who I could trust for straight forward, honest and ethical actions. Agree or disagree, he was genuine with a sense of purpose and commitment. I can remember working on campus with him during his Mosby training and having several people yell “hey coach” each day as we walked across multiple campuses. A sign of how he touch his players and students when he was coach. And the practical jokes. I still remember him having a hotel reservations clerk in Denver thinking he was Robert Redford. I’m better for knowing Tom and will miss him. My condolences to his family and can’t imagine the loss you feel.

I had the pleasure of working with Tom at Mosby/Elsevier for many years. He wasn’t just another colleague. He treated me…and everyone.. as if we were truly special. He knew how to create a special bond with others and how to make us all feel good. Most coworkers remain just that – coworkers, but Tom became a special friend. My favorite memories of Tom include his wild stories, his pranks, and trips to Florida. He knew how to enjoy life, and he did his best to see that everyone around him did the same. This is a great photo that you chose. It brings tears to my eyes, but they’re all such fond memories. My deepest sympathy and love to Abby, Caity, Erin, and all your family.

Tom and I worked together for over 30 years. I have reported to him and he to me more recently. He was a friend, mentor and colleague. We spent many a night at dinner in Atlanta discussing life and family as well as working daily discussing business. He would pull a practical joke so you were occasionally on the fence as to believe him or not. He had great balance in communicating and that is what made him such good leader and coach. I am sad for his family and for all those who will miss him dearly. He is someone who touched everyone he met with enthusiasm and respect.

We were deeply saddened by this news. I also worked with Tom for many years at Mosby and remember him as a talented leader and mentor to many colleagues. And yes, a consummate practical joker. Dianne and I offer our deepest condolences – our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Visitation

Friday, February 9, 2018
1:00pm-2:30pm
Langsford Funeral Home
115 SW 3rd St
Lee’s Summit, MO 64063

Services

Friday, February 9, 2018
2:30pm
Langsford Funeral Home
115 SW 3rd St
Lee’s Summit, MO 64063