Thomas Leo Mullins Sr.
“Tom” or “Butch”
October 16th, 1948 - February 13th, 2024
Thomas Leo Mullins Sr. passed away Tuesday, February 13, 2024. Born in Alameda, California in October of 1948, then moving with his family to Indiana at a young age, where he became a lifelong resident of Porter County. He was preceded in death by his mother Nelda Sue Mullins, father Leo Mullins, brothers Greg and Dan Mullins, daughter Kimberly Mullins, and granddaughter Alexis Sickles.
Tom is survived by his daughter Michelle (David) Sickles, son Thomas Leo Mullins Jr. (Tiffany Maddle), and his grandchildren, Maddisyn Sickles, Dylan Sickles, and Jackson Mullins.
In his younger years Tom served in the United States Coast Guard, studied criminology, and held many trusted positions throughout his life. He held members of law enforcement and military in the highest regard. After retiring as an Insurance Brokerage Agent, Tom discovered his passion in becoming an IHSAA referee for volleyball, as well as earning additional accreditations and certifications. He enjoyed refereeing volleyball tournaments and leagues all over the state of Indiana. By doing this, he met many coaches, officials, and adult players he was able to call friends.
Tom never met a stranger that he could not win over with his sense of humor, wit, and sarcasm. He was generous, strong, and intelligent.
Tom had no bigger love than watching his children and grandchildren thrive. His unwavering pride, support, and love as a father, grandfather, uncle, cousin, and friend will be deeply missed.
Tom’s Celebration of Life will be held at Moeller Funeral Home 104 Roosevelt Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 on Saturday, February 24th, 2024. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., followed by a graveside service at Calvary Cemetery in Portage.
GUESTBOOK
The world is emptier today without Tom walking with us. I will miss his friendship & love. -Janet Robertson Murphy
I had known your dad for the better part of 28 years. Going back to the days when he was married to Sheila and our son James was babysat by her. Tommy you were a youngster as well. My husband and I always like your dad. My heart breaks for you and your sister along with the next generation that will not get the lifelong opportunity of knowing Tom. May GOD give you all strength and peace to get through this difficult time. Hold on to your memories and never waiver in them along with all of stories you will tell your children about their grandpa. I know every time I saw him, he was more than happy to bring me up to speed on how Tommy was doing and just beam about his grandkids. Now he will watch over you all. -Debbie Podgorski
Everyone that knew Tom is experiencing a great loss. Our family was blessed to know him and have him living as a next door neighbor to my Mother, living alone after our Father passed in 2006. He watched over, and made sure she was safe, when we were not around. He was her angel, and I am eternally grateful for knowing him. Prayers and special thoughts offered for the family. Earth's loss, Heaven's gain. Rest in Peace my friend. -Billie Faye Brannon
Tom was one of the most loved and favored referees in high school and adult volleyball leagues. He always made us smile and we knew he would be there with some sarcastic comment that would get everyone going. His smile and banter will be greatly missed! -The Bodnar Family
Tom was always our favorite volleyball referee. Tom always made the correct call, but allowed us to disagree anyways leading to lots of laughs. It was a pleasure knowing Tom who always asked how us players were doing while also telling us to hurry up and set up the nets. The volleyball world has Tom in our thoughts and memories that will stay alive in our hearts! -Meghan
My sincerest condolences to all Tom’s family for your difficult loss. Tom was always so kind to me, he always had a laugh to share, and was one of the best supporters of any small or large event in my life! He always put a smile on my face. He will be greatly missed! -Melody Stalbaum
Tom, our cherished volleyball ref, aced the calls and embraced our playful disagreements, creating laughter-filled memories. Knowing Tom was a true pleasure. His memory continues to live on in our hearts. -Morgan Plesac
You befriended me when I first moved into Ingram Manor and helped me a lot around my house plus after I had back surgery you were there for me. I will miss you so much. I am having a very hard time getting through this. The pain is gone now so please rest in peace and I’m sure I will see you again sometime. -Linda Brown
I can't believe you are gone. I'm so upset and mad at you. I tried so many times to get you to go to the doctor or hospital. I walk outside and expect to see you walking over to see me or working outside and I'm walking over to see you. You always did so much for me and sent me such beautiful flowers and plants. We had so much in common. I remember you were always grilling me on movies since I have seen them all lol. You got that snow blower and was so happy when it snowed so you could come do my driveway. You asked me if I wanted to power wash my house, so you went and bought one. I miss you at the legion every Friday. I miss our talks I just miss you Yours always, -Sandra Gerkin
I'm so sorry for your loss. Your dad was a wonderful man and a great friend and neighbor. He was always very helpful and went over and above in making sure if you needed something he was right there. I will miss him. I miss him everyday. -Sandra Gerkin
