Grover Thomas "Tom" Fugate

Grover Thomas "Tom" Fugate, 82 of Pekin, formerly of Galesburg passed away at 2:12 pm, Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at Washington Senior Living Center in Washington. Tom was born in Macomb to Dale F. and Grace (Goin) Fugate on March 9, 1942. He married Joyce Christopher on April 13, 1963 at First Baptist Church in Creve Coeur, IL. He was preceded in death by his parents, his step-father who raised him after his fathers accidental death when he was two, Vernon Losch; two brothers, Kenneth and Jerry Fugate; two sisters, Lois Norris and Carol Brothers; and one step-brother, Don Losch. He is survived by his beloved wife Joyce, they were married almost 63 years; two sisters, Bonnie Eigeneer of Joliet, IL and Ellen (Walt) Deeter of Westfield, IN; many beloved nieces and nephews; and his best buddy, K9 Bailey who misses him dearly. Tom was a veteran of the United States Navy. He worked for Packaging Corporation of America and Caterpillar Tractor Company. He was always a member of a local Baptist Church, with membership most recently at Bethel Baptist in Pekin. Over the years he served as a Deacon, taught Sunday School, drove the bus, was song leader, and in any area needed. He loved children, and his time helping them to know Jesus better. He loved to fish, and his annual vacations with his brother on family camping-fishing trips. Tom loved all animals, but most especially dogs. He enjoyed watching the birds and squirrels in his yard and kept them both fed from the bird feeders. He was known for his infectious smile, and he truly never met a stranger. A funeral service will be held Thursday, February 13, 2025 at 1:00 pm at Bethel Baptist Church, 2720 Broadway St, Pekin, IL with Pastor Nissley officiating. A visitation will be held one hour prior from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm also at the church. Burial will be in Swan Lake Memory Gardens, Peoria, IL with Military Honors provided by the United States Navy. To view the livestream of Toms service, visit Bethel Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/bbc.pekin/live In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Bethel Baptist Church or the Alzheimers Association. Funeral Service Thursday, February 13, 2025 1:00 PM Bethel Baptist Church 2720 Broadway St Pekin,IL 61554 Visitation Thursday, February 13, 2025 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Bethel Baptist Church 2720 Broadway St Pekin,IL 61554