Robert "Bob" Thoms

Robert Dean Thoms was born to Otto Christian Thoms and Emma Marie Stender on March 22, 1933, in Avoca, Iowa. He was baptized and later confirmed his faith at the Lutheran Church in Avoca. He received his education from Avoca High School and graduated with the Class of 1952. 

Bob’s career was a testament to his hard work and dedication. He began his professional journey at Iowa State Telephone in Avoca and later enlisted in the United States Army in April 1953. Serving in Germany until 1955, Bob demonstrated unwavering commitment to his country. Upon his return, he continued his work as an installer repair man until his well-deserved retirement on January 1, 1993, after over 40 years of service.

On January 14, 1968, Robert married his best friend Catherine Andersen Messerschmidt. It wasn’t often that you didn’t see one without the other being there too. Together, they built a loving family, including Catherine's children Dana and Tracy, and their son Christian. Bob was deeply involved in the Shelby Lutheran Church, where he served on the council and trust fund board. His contributions extended beyond the church as he dedicated his time to organizations such as the American Legion Post 227 and VFW Post 941.

Bob’s impact on the community of Shelby was profound. He devoted over three decades to the Shelby County Conservation Board, served for 44 years on the Shelby Volunteer Fire Department, and took on roles in the Shelby City Council along with a term as mayor. His initiatives such as starting the Pickin and Grinnin Jam sessions brought joy to many. 

Outside of his commitments, Bob found joy in various hobbies. From being named the World's Champion Goose Caller in 1976 to indulging in activities like bowling, golfing, fishing, woodcarving, feeding his Purple Martins and various other birds, taxidermy, building and flying R/C model airplanes and even flying drones. Bob will be remembered not only for his professional achievements, but also for the love and care he showed to his family and community. His legacy of dedication and service will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Bob passed away peacefully on Friday, June 14, 2024, at Astoria Senior Living in Omaha, Nebraska at the age of 91 years, two months and 23 days. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters: Sylvia Fell and Goldie Krohn; brother, Otto Thoms Jr.; nephew, Lindy Krohn; nieces: Janie Green and Janet Dobernecker; brothers-in-law: George Fell, Clarence Krohn, Irwin Andersen and David Andersen. He is survived by his wife of over 56 years, Catherine Thoms of Omaha, formerly of Shelby; sons: Chrisitan "Chris" (Dee) Thoms of Woodbine and Dana (Shirley) Messerschmidt of Blair, Nebraska; daughter, Tracy (Jeff) Shreeves of Underwood; five grandchildren: Keith (Holly) Messerschmidt of Shawnee, Kansas, Kelly (Jon) Zelenda of Omaha, Emily (Tyler) Robinson of Oceanside, California, Kurtis Shreeves of Underwood, Tyler Messerschmidt of Stockholm, Sweden; seven great-grandchildren: Charlotte, Roark, Brody, Ellis, Abigail, Meier and Jake; special niece, Sally Casey; special nephew, Gary Fell; and many other relatives and friends. 

 His funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at the United Lutheran Church in Shelby, Iowa with visitation held from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. prior to the service. Interment with military honors will follow in the Shelby Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the family.