Thomas Ghysels

Tom was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1937. He was active in sports in high school, excelling at football and baseball. He was in the Army National Guard and served six months on active duty during the Berlin Crisis in 1962. He graduated from Western Michigan University, majoring in Economics. His first job was with The Travelers Insurance Company in employee benefits and pensions. As his career advanced he rose through the ranks and was named regional manager He later retired from Willis as a pension consultant.
Tom and Marilyn met in college and were married in 1962. They moved to California in 1969 and lived in Hacienda Heights for 30 years. As a couple they enjoyed bridge, golf and travel.
Tom was an elected member of the Hacienda La Puente School Board for nine years. He was chairman of the Republican Central Committee, 60h Assembly District.
Tom and Marilyn later moved to Whittier. Tom was active in politics, the Lions, golf and the church. In February they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with the family
Tom was a member of St John Vianney Church and taught Catechism classes for many years. He also became a tour guide at the new Our Lady of the Angels Cathedral, and was a Eucharistic minister, bringing communion to patients at Whittier Hospital.
In recent years, Tom suffered from dementia. He died of pneumonia on August 21st, 2022.
Tom is survived by his wife Marilyn, his son Steve, daughter-in-law Liz, and daughter Catherine and son-in-law Todd. An older son, John, passed away in 2015. His six grandchildren are all grown and doing well: Taylor, Rio, Paige, Tommy, Madison and Nicholas.