Tom was inducted into the WABDL Hall of Fame in 2012. He had set over 50 World Records and won 7 World Championships in Bench Press and 8 in Deadlift. He still holds World Records in 61-67/259 in Double Ply Bench with 479.5. He currently holds the World Record in the Deadlift in Disabled 2 / 60 Single Ply 242 with 540, 61-67/308 Single Ply with 617.2, 54-60/308 Single Ply with 655.7, 61-67/259 Double Ply with 551, Disabled 2 / 60 at 259 Double Ply with 551, Disabled 2 / 60 at 242 Double Ply with 518. In Push Pull Tom holds the World Record in 61-67/242 Double Ply with 898.2 for a grand total of 9 World Records that he still holds and he hasn’t competed since 2016 which attests to the quality of his World Records. He was a builder and a developer in the construction industry for his entire career.

Tom was the fiercest competitor I ever met. He went through two hip replacements and still could deadlift 600 at age 63. He was also a true Texas gentleman with a kind and giving personality to all of those he came in contact with. He died of Lou Gehrig’s Disease and fought it with tremendous courage. He was the epitome of athletic fitness his whole life. He played college baseball and football at college of DuPage in Glen Ellyn Illinois He was a Powerlifter for 40 years and was always very supportive and positive with all he came into contact within the sport. Tom was a Christian (a member of St. Gabriel the Archangel Church), a gem – a bright light that will always be remembered and he was something to behold on the Deadlift Platform. Tom has left a void in many peoples lives that won’t be filled. He was a tremendous presence.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia of 45 years, his son Christopher and his wife Kristen, daughter – Jamie Brickler and her husband Eric, and sister Jill Koho and her husband Charles, and 4 grandchildren.

Regards,
Gus Rethwisch