Thomas Ramsey

Thomas Ramsey 85, of Cedar Rapids, passed away on Monday, July 13, 2026. Burial will take place at a later date in Phelps Cemetery, Decorah, Iowa. Papich-Kuba Funeral Service, Cedar Rapids, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Thomas Gerald was born December 1, 1940, to his loving parents, Norman and Hildegarde (Rude) Ramsey. After his service in the United States Army, he returned to Decorah. It was there that he met Shirley Frey, the woman who he spent the next 56 years of married life with.

They moved to Cedar Rapids for Tom to take a position with Wilson/Farmstead Packing Plant. After nearly 30 years, the plant closed and he went to Truck Driving School to begin a new career. For the next 30 years he, usually with Shirley by his side, drove semis, seeing the country together.

He liked hunting, fishing and RV camping in his free time. All the ladies in the family fondly remember him taking them for a spin on the dance floor. Great fun. Tom had a bit of a sweet tooth too, especially when it came to peanut butter and Hershey’s chocolate bars.

He was known for his stubborn streak and he always liked to be right; a trait that those who knew him well came to love and smile about. Despite that, he had a gentle, easy-going nature and a calm presence. Goodbye was said with a kiss on the cheek.

Those left to remember Tom include his wife, Shirley; daughter, Debbie (Rodney) Smith; grandchildren, Larissa (Matthew) Tjaden, Gabrielle Henecke, Bradley Henecke, Nicole Smith, Rebecca Smith, and Leah Smith; great-grandchildren, Bridger, Bowen, and Briar; and nephew, Stevie (Kim) Ramsey. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Brenda Ramsey; brothers, Darrell and Victor Ramsey; and nephew Jerry.

Memorials may be made to the family.