Thomas Galyen

Thomas Albert Galyen, son of the late John Thomas Galyen and Gertrude Elise Guenther Galyen passed away Saturday, November 2, 2024 at Accolade Rehab in Savoy, IL

Tom was born August 29, 1944 at U. S. Merchant Marine Hospital on Staten Island, NY.  He was preceded in death by a twin sister, Gail Elaine, who died as an infant, both parents, and a brother-in-law James Wallace.

Survivors include his sisters Joyce Rose Wallace and Meredith Elise Thomann, a brother-in-law Allan Thomann and nephews Kevin (wife Erin) and Chad (wife Deanna) Wallace and Adam Crook (wife Carrie), two grand nieces, Amanda (husband Jorden) Hamblen and Addison Wallace, three grand nephews Brandon Crook, Ethan Wallace, and Alexander Wallace, a great grand nephew Huxley Hamblen and a great grand niece Hadley Rose Hamblen. 

Tom was a graduate of Georgetown High School.  He also was in the first graduating class at Danville Area Community College’s computer sciences program.

He served in the U. S. Navy on active duty during the Viet Nam War as a Fire Controlman 1st Class.  His younger sister originally thought this meant he was a fireman, when in actuality his role was controlling the ship’s weapons systems.  After completing his active duty requirement, he drilled and retired from the Navy Reserve Center in Peoria.  He was employed for many years at People’s Gas near Mahomet, IL.

He enjoyed boating, Revolutionary War reenactments and long walks in the woods with his beloved dog, Molly.  He was a member of St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Urbana and was a Lay Minister for many years before he had to resign due to health issues.  He was a kind and gentle soul who lived life to the fullest. 

In accordance with Tom's wishes, he will be cremated. Friends may greet the family on Monday, November 11 at St. Matthew Lutheran Church,  2200 Philo Road, Urbana, IL from 10-11 a.m with a memorial service immediately following.  

 

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