Thomas R. Elias Jr.

Thomas R. Elias, Jr. 81, of Galesburg, died at 5:10 p.m. Saturday, December 20, 2014 at Heartland Health Care, Galesburg. He was born July 14, 1933 in Galesburg, the son of Thomas and Mary Beajnok Elias, Sr.  He married Rebecca A. Gutierrez on November 28, 1969.  He attended Farmington High School and played football, basketball, and baseball.  He served in the US Army from June 19, 1953 to May 23, 1955 achieving the rank of Sgt., serving in Austria.  He retired from Maytag Corp. in Galesburg after 33 years of employment. He is survived by his daughter, Becky (Rigoberto) Avila of Galesburg; a son, Dean Lopez of Galesburg; a brother, Richard Elias of Wisconsin; one grandson, Eric (Alejandra Gutierrez) Elias; and twin great granddaughters, Eliciah and Avianah Elias.  He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Jack and Donnie. He enjoyed spending time at the Patio with his friends and he loved all sports. A celebration of life will be at 3 p.m. Saturday, December 27, 2014 at the Patio Bar, 1585 Monmouth Blvd., Galesburg.  Chicken and Potato Salad will be provided.  Feel free to bring a dish to pass.  Cremation rites have been accorded.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.  Memorials may be made to the family.