Thomas W. Abbott Obituary (1950 - 2016)

Thomas W Abbott, 66, passed peacefully to eternal life February 14, 2016 at Heartland Health Care Center in Normal, Illinois. Born April 23, 1950 in Bloomington, Illinois, Tom was the son of Dr Orville Abbott and True Elizabeth Kirk Abbott; and a brother to Jim, Steve, and Arthur Abbott.From small meat locker plants to large retail grocery stores, Tom worked in the Meat and Seafood business throughout his life. He truly loved his work because of the friendships he forged with co-workers and customers. Everyone he came into contact with witnessed his hard work, enthusiasm, and friendly demeanor.Tom was an avid fisherman and loved to take trips to Missouri and Wisconsin as well as visit some of his favorite "spots" here in McLean County when he had free time.Tom was also a man of unquestionable character. In such an unsettled world, Tom was always a voice of reason that you could count on to do and say the right thing at the right time. He was not really a union activist but he was well trusted by his peers and he worked hard negotiating several labor contracts for the people he worked with. He sacrificed personal gain and fought for what was right for all.A kind, gentle, and sincere man, he always put the needs of others before that of his own. Tom, with his huge compassionate heart, was a very dear and loving friend to many. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of the people whose lives he touched.