Rev. Thomas Henry Walsch

Reverend Thomas H. Walsch passed away Thursday, February 13, 2014 at the Ellsworth County Medical Center at the age of 97. He was born April 27, 1916 to Thomas Wesley “Harry” and Gertrude Edith (Knauer) Walsh in Chicago, Illinois. Thomas received his grade school and high school education in Chicago. He received a Bachelor of Theology degree from Northern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1937. He was united in marriage to Doris Grauer on November 11, 1937 in Campbell, NE. In 1943 he received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Central YMCA College in Chicago. In 1946 he received a Bachelor of Divinity degree from Northern Seminary in Chicago. Thomas dedicated his life to loving and serving God and His people. The hallmark of his ministry was raising funds to improve church properties. This included everything from office equipment upgrades to remodeling projects to building new structures. Thomas was never at a loss for vision, motivation, and inspiration for completing whatever work the Lord had called him to. Survivors include his sister, Gertrude Hanschke of Magnolia, Texas; brother-in-law, Gerald Grauer and wife Shirley of Lincoln, Nebraska; nieces, Karen Hanschke and Janet Janson; nephews, Bob Grauer, Paul Grauer, Jr. and Charles Grauer. He is preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Gertrude Walsch; wife, Doris Walsch in 2005; and brother-in-law, Paul Grauer. Thomas was an inspiration to all who knew him. He will be greatly loved and missed. But his legacy will far outlive his years on this earth to all the generations that come after him. For Thomas did not just help build buildings. He helped build people, faith, and the Kingdom of God on this earth. His heart and devotion along with his tireless and selfless love has taught us by example, how to fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith. Indeed a crown of righteousness has been awarded him this day.