THOMAS GERALD OGDEN
February 15, 1961 – February 2, 2024

Tom was born in Nebraska. At 14 he moved to Arizona, where he attended and graduated from Thunderbird High School. He went on to become a well-respected and talented professional painter, a trade he learned from his father. However, he felt a deep calling to become a first responder and he did so by becoming a firefighter in the New River, Arizona and Columbia, Missouri fire departments, where his career of service spanned over 25 years. Tom also had a creative and inquisitive mind, which he put to use in developing skills that allowed him to perform a variety of construction and mechanical projects, which he eagerly performed for family, friends and even strangers.

Tom was proud to be an Ioway tribal member.  He was known for having an outgoing personality and an easy-going attitude and approach to life. Tom could also be a bit of a jokester and his carefree spirit and infectious laughter often filled a room with joy.

That joy echoes in our hearts and minds today as a reminder of the happiness that he brought into each of our lives. His spirit was one that danced with the winds and soared with the eagles.

During his life here on earth Tom faced many challenges, but he stood tall, facing each one with courage and grace, turning obstacles into steppingstones and setbacks into comebacks. His resilience was a reminder that with FAITH, perseverance, and a positive outlook, one could overcome even the most formidable of challenges.

Tom was preceded in death by his father Charles Ogden Sr., brother Todd Ogden and stepbrother Matthew Yerger. He is survived by his children Naomi Ogden, Tom Morgan, Amy Ogden McEntire (Preston) and Ian Ogden (Lauren), his grandchildren Easton, Blakely and Henry, his mother Gloria Yerger (Brad), his brother Charles Ogden Jr. (Danette), sister Shawn Wright (Kim), niece Madeline Wright, nephew Christian Wright (Abrah), step-nephew Grae Gammel and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Tom, you will forever be in our hearts, your life a cherished and beautiful memory.

Arrangements are being handled by Chapel Oaks Funeral Home. https://www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com

A private Celebration of Life service for family and friends is scheduled for 10:00 AM, Saturday March 9, 2024, at the George Ogden Building 3345 Thrasher Rd. White Cloud, KS  66094 with burial at 2:00 PM at Pleasant Hill Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.