Obituary of Tom Highberger

Tom Highberger, age 73, of Westphalia, Kansas, passed away on Friday, May 11, 2018 at his home.

Tom was the only child born to Lawrence and Florence (Schlick) Highberger. He was born on February 3, 1945 in Iola, Kansas. Tom grew up in Westphalia, graduating from Westphalia High School with the class of 1963. He was a lifelong resident of the area. Tom married Judy Svelan on December 5, 1964, their union was blessed with four children.  They later divorced.  Tom was the sixth generation to farm the family farm, dating back to 1884. After retiring from farming he operated Highberger Contruction until his health would no longer allow him to continue. Tom was an avid deer hunter. He also loved crappie and bass fishing in his ponds with his children and grandchildren.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his children, Rebecca Walden and Dave Driskel of Iola, Kansas, Cheryl Thompson and husband, Kurt of Springfield, Missouri, Angela Gardner and Kenny Covey of Colony, Kansas, and Dale Highberger and wife, Jennifer of Overland Park, Kansas; eight grandchildren, Seth Walden and wife, Kayla of Overland Park, Andrew and Shane Walden of Iola, Mia and Ami Thompson of Springfield, Chloe and Hannah Gardner of Colony, and Halle Jane Highberger of Vancouver, Canada.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM, Thursday, May 17, 2018, at St. Teresa Catholic Church, Westphalia, Kansas. Burial will follow in the St. Teresa Cemetery. The family will greet friends following a 7:00 PM Rosary on Wednesday evening at the church. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Westphalia Knights of Columbus or to the Westphalia First Responders and left in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be left at www.feuerbornfuneral.com.