Thomas C. Thalheim, age 69, of Mount Vernon, passed away on Monday, October 20,
2025, at Knox Community Hospital.

He was born on July 20, 1956 in Flint, Michigan and was the son of the late Carl D. and
Hazel (Taylor) Thalheim.

Thomas—Tom to all who knew him—had a heart filled with love for God, his family, and
his country. He served with honor in the United States Air Force for 16 years, traveling
the world and retiring as a major having been recognized as Company Grade Officer of
the Year at Andrews AFB. Tom’s heart of service was also reflected in his time as a
volunteer firefighter and rescue diver—caring for his community in his off-hours.

After the Air Force, Tom’s lifelong dream of driving trains became a reality.  He held
positions as conductor, safety officer, and train master.  Tom also taught online
university courses in railway transportation, educating the next generation of railroad
workers. He valued education.  He held a BA in Biblical Literature from Olivet Nazarene
College, and he supported Nazarene higher education throughout his life. Tom also held
master’s degrees in business management and in logistics and transportation.  No one
was lost when Tom was around—he could find a route to anywhere—usually the scenic
route!

Tom most recently served as a bus driver for the Lifewise Academy of Fredericktown,
transporting school children to and from Bible lessons each week.  God created Tom
with a heart of love and care that influenced every decision in his life. He and Debbie
settled in Mount Vernon, OH to be close to their children and grandchildren, actively
participating in their lives.  Tom loved spending time with his grandkids and enjoyed
watching their concerts and athletic events. He was a loving father who always wanted
to care for, pray for, and encourage his daughters.  Tom was a devoted husband whose
favorite place to be was next to his wife, Debbie.

Tom was never one to boast about himself. He demonstrated his servant’s heart
throughout his life and all over the world, his greatest desire being to honor God and
share God’s love with those around him.

Thomas is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Debra A. (Dunnigan) Thalheim; three
daughters, Rachel Moore, Becky (Kyle) Tocheff; Sabina (Chris) Anderson; six
grandchildren, Riley, Madelyn, Mason, Morgan, Alana, Edmund; brothers, David (Dawn)
Thalheim, Tim Thalheim; and a sister, Barbara (Dave) Rasbold.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, October 27, 2025, from 10:30 A.M. – 12:00 PM at
First Church of the Nazarene, 807 Coshocton Ave, Mount Vernon, Ohio.  Funeral
services will follow calling hours at 12:00 PM.  Burial with military graveside honors
conducted by the Knox County Joint Veterans Council will be in Mound View Cemetery.

Snyder Funeral Home – Lasater Chapel is handling the services for the Thalheim family.
To express a condolence to the family, please visit www.snyderfuneralhomes.com

Funeral Home: The Snyder Funeral Home – Lasater Chapel

Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com