Thomas “Tom” Elwood Scheers, 80, of Keokuk, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in Fort Madison, Iowa.
Tom was born on December 11, 1945, in Georgetown, Delaware, the son of John and Pearl Scheers. On December 3, 1979, he was united in marriage to Mary Lobberecht. She preceded him in death on February 11, 2017.
Tom proudly served his country in the Marine Corps in Vietnam, receiving several medals and a purple heart, receiving his honorable discharge in 1971. He went on to paint houses for many years before being a prison guard, retiring in 2008. He also worked at Hartrick’s Lumber in Keokuk.
Tom enjoyed relaxing with a fishing pole in his hands or tending to his garden. He enjoyed driving around sight-seeing, stopping at garage sales to find a deal. He was also an avid collector. “Saigon Tom” will always be remembered for his big heart and generous soul. He was as social as he was impatient, his stubbornness was only matched by his love for his friends and family.
Tom is survived by his son Steve (Billi) Cramer of Mount Enterprise, Texas; his daughters Gina Cramer of Montrose, Jessica (Bill) Atterberg of Keokuk and Tammy Scheers of Delaware; his significant other Judy Evans of Keokuk; and sixteen grandchildren: Zoe (Matthew), Luke, Brice, Noah, Toby, Tommy II, Ashley, John, Josh, Lori, Orion, Liam, Hallee (Izick), Izzy, Trinity and Alisha. Other survivors include numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Tom is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Mary, his son Tommy Cramer and lifelong friend Karen Hardy.
A memorial service will be held at 12 pm (Noon) on Monday, August 31, 2026, at DeJong-Printy Funeral Home in Keokuk, with burial to follow at Keokuk National Cemetery in Keokuk, Iowa. Graveside military honors will be rendered by the United States Marine Corps and the American Legion Post #41. Visitation will be held from 11 am to 12 pm (Noon) on Monday, August 31, 2026, at DeJong-Printy Funeral Home in Keokuk directly before the service.
Memorials may be directed to the American Legion Post #41 or Keokuk Animal Services.
Memories and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.
DeJong-Printy Funeral Home of Keokuk is in charge of arrangements.
