SAN ANGELO, Texas — Tom L. Berscheidt dedicated his life to family, friends, and serving God. On Feb. 11, surrounded by many people who loved him, Tom passed away from complications associated with esophageal cancer, just 17 days before his 60th birthday. Tom was born on Feb. 28, 1951 in Ellinwood, the second child of Ray and Dorothy (Wess) Berscheidt. He spent his early years in Ellinwood and Great Bend, surrounded by the extended families of both his parents, working during the summer months on his grandparents, Pete and Mayme Berscheidt, farm located a few miles east of Ellinwood. When Tom’s father took a position with Mitsubishi Aircraft International in 1968, the family moved to San Angelo, Texas. Tom graduated from Central High School the following year. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business four years later from Angelo State University.

Tom worked for Mitsubishi Aircraft until the company closed the San Angelo manufacturing facility in the mid-1980s. He then began a successful career as an independent businessman, operating from offices in San Angelo and Dallas, Texas. Among his other ventures, Tom founded and headed an aviation consulting business which brought him into contact with clients and customers throughout the world, many of whom became his friends as well.

Tom was an active member of Holy Angels Catholic Church throughout his years in San Angelo. He was the co-director of the Holy Angels Youth Organization for more than 20 years beginning in the 1970s. He also led a Boy Scout troop for several years. His dedication to God and his love of the youth he served touched the lives of hundreds of young people and their parents.

Blessed with an outgoing personality and a generous heart, Tom was a supporter of countless civic and charitable organizations as well as a frequent benefactor to many individuals in need. With members of his family and his many friends, Tom regularly pursued his twin passions for entertaining and travel.

Tom is survived by his brother Tim of Houston, Texas; his sister Jane of Thousand Oaks, Calif.; his brother Jim and sister-in-law Jennifer of Denver, Colo; nephews and nieces Stephen, Michael, Meghan, Kelly, Austin, and Jordan; and an aunt, Helen Mae Tomberlin, formerly of Ellinwood who now lives in Great Bend.

A rosary was held at Holy Angels Catholic Church in San Angelo on Feb. 16 with a funeral mass at the church on Feb. 17. Burial followed at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Family and friends may sign an online guest book at johnsons-funeralhome.com.