Thomas Poling

Tom Poling, age 78 of Van Wert, Ohio passed away at his residence on March 28. He will be sadly missed by family members including sister Ann Buis, brother Don Poling, brother-in-law Doug Hemlepp and six nieces and nephews: Pam Stumpp, Doug Hemlepp, Susan Bright, Jeff Hemlepp, Matt Poling, and Jane Vatterott. Their partners and children all benefitted from Uncle Tom's insightful comments, sense of humor, and playful approach to life. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Lois Poling; his beloved sister, Susan Poling Hemlepp; brother-in-law Tom Buis and sister-in-law Susan Sedgewick Poling.

Born January 9, 1944 in Van Wert, Tommy grew up on his parents' farm with his three siblings. Like many farm families, they all worked hard together to keep the farm going strong. He spent his formative years learning the difficult yet rewarding life on a farm. When not helping at home, Tom excelled at sports- playing football, basketball and baseball through high school.

Music touched Tom deeply, leading him to a career as a music agent, promoting local talent in Florida, Kentucky and eventually Nashville, Tennessee. He enjoyed many years in the vibrant music world in Nashville until 2007, when he returned to Van Wert.

Tom was an avid reader and enjoyed lively discussions on many topics with both friends and strangers.

The family will have a private ceremony celebrating Tom's life at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the Brumback Library at 215 West Main Street in Van Wert, Ohio, 45891 (phone 419-238-2168) OR The Community Foundation Mental Health Fund at 101 West Sandusky Street #207 in Findlay, Ohio, 45840 (phone 419-425-1100).