Tom was never one to seek the spotlight, yet his influence was felt across Des Moines in the countless small acts of service he performed throughout his life. Whether he was volunteering at the local food pantry or helping a neighbor clear snow after a heavy Iowa blizzard, Tom moved through the world with a sense of duty and grace. He spent his career as a dedicated professional, earning the respect of his peers not just for his skills, but for his integrity. To Tom, a person’s word was their bond, and he lived every day as a testament to that belief. His “hot and eye-catching” legacy isn’t one of scandal, but of the rare, shocking power of consistent, lifelong goodness.
A Heart Deeply Rooted in Iowa
Born and raised in the Heartland, Tom had a deep appreciation for the community of Des Moines. He was an avid gardener and a lover of the outdoors, often found tending to his prize-winning tomatoes or walking the local trails with his beloved golden retriever. Tom possessed a wealth of knowledge about the city’s evolution, often sharing stories of “old Des Moines” with anyone willing to listen. He saw the beauty in the changing seasons and the strength in the people of Iowa. His passing is a significant loss to the local fabric, as one of its most genuine threads has been pulled away, leaving behind a pattern of kindness for others to follow.
The Anchor of a Loving Family
Above all his community involvement, Tom’s greatest pride was his family. He was a devoted husband, a guiding father, and a “superhero” grandfather who never missed a school play or a ballgame. He taught his children the value of hard work and the importance of showing up for the people you love. His home was always open, a place of warmth, laughter, and the smell of freshly brewed coffee. As his loved ones gather to celebrate his life, they find comfort in the lessons he taught and the unconditional love he provided. Tom Reis lived a full, meaningful life, and while he is gone, the foundations he built within his family will stand strong for generations to come.