Walter Thomas Gilcrist, 83 years old, of Arlington, NE, passed away Thursday, March 20, 2025, at his home on “The Ranch.”
Tom was born on March 20, 1942, in Omaha, NE. He was the eldest of seven children born to Walter Frederick and Donis (Allington) Gilcrist. Tom graduated from Benson High School in 1960. He served in the Nebraska National Guard from 1964-1970.
In 1965, Tom proudly married his Bride, Kathleen “Kay” Johnson. The pair were blessed with a daughter, Carol, and two sons, Mike and Jim.
Tom worked at Mutual of Omaha for 38 years, as well as at Floor Bright, Bethany Lutheran Church, Ace Hardware of Elkhorn and Everett’s Repair in Valley.
Throughout his life, Tom enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, going camping, taking rides in the country, and watching NASCAR and Husker football.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Kay of Arlington; his daughter Carol (Steve) Rueschhoff of Sioux Falls, SD; his two sons Mike of Arlington, and Jim (Saundra) of Tucson, AZ; his three grandchildren Sara Rueschhoff (Casey Gallagher), Dallas Gilcrist and Ryan Rueschhoff (Chloe Kirschten); his siblings Judy Slizewski, Terry (Janet), Tim (Linda), Fred, Jane Ash and Nancy Simonsen; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers-in-law Ray Slizewski, Les Ash, and Bob Simonsen; sister-in-law Sharm Gilcrist; and life-long friends Gary and Ginny Stanzel.
There will be a private funeral service for the immediate family. A special thank you to close family friend, Father Don Shane. A gathering for friends and family will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Friday, March 28, at Arlington Auditorium, 410 W. Elm St., Arlington, NE 68002.
