John Thomas "Tom" Lopeman

John Thomas “Tom” Lopeman, 74, of rural East Peoria, IL, sadly passed away on Monday, May 4, 2026 in the arms of his wife, surrounded by his children. A man of faith and conviction, Tom fought his terminal cancer diagnosis with dignity and true grit.

Tom was born on November 29, 1951, in Peoria, IL, the loyal and loving son of John and Jean Lopeman. He was big brother to his two surviving sisters, Cathy (Dave) Hoopingarner of Hanna City and Connie (Ken) Kelly of Henry. His parents and brother-in-law Dave preceded him in death.

Tom married his treasured wife, Cheryl (McNutt) on May 1, 1982, recently celebrating 44 years. Together, Tom and Cheryl shared a wonderful vision, working to build their family that flourished with love; their children, Allison (Doug) Bishop, Maggie Lopeman, and A.J. (Alissa) Lopeman are a testament to the enduring strength of their bond. The immense love he had for his grandchildren, Rachel, Ryder, Rylee and Aemilia had no boundaries, all spoiled by their Papa! He was so excited to meet his new granddaughter, Alayah, who is to be born in July, unfortunately, God ends a life to start a new life, Papa already loved her.

Graduating from Henry-Senachwine High School, in 1969, he continued to pursue his interest in computers attending the Electronics Technical Institute which led to his career in Information Technology. Tom worked for McDonnell-Douglas, CILCO, ultimately, retiring from Caterpillar in 2015 after working 45 years in IT.

Tom’s passion for travel and exploration led him to visit all fifty states with Cheryl, creating lifelong memories. As an avid enthusiast of history, westerns and science fiction (obviously, passing on Star Wars Day)! He was a valued asset to any trivia team. Many trips with kids/grandkids included National Parks, Yellowstone, Glacier, Rocky Mountain, or dinosaur digs, OK corral or battleship tours incorporating his love for history and westerns. Frequent family trips to Hayward, Wisconsin were a cherished tradition filled with camping, fishing, sightseeing and quality time with his beloved family, a time to reconnect and strengthen bonds.

Tom loved Sunday afternoons at the movies, Bingo nights, enjoyed a good glass of wine, good food, annual wine tasting with friends and looked forward to the yearly Lopeman Christmas party. He loved a good joke, though a quiet man, his laughter was contagious bringing joy to all around.

Tom was a loving son, beloved brother, loved uncle to his numerous nieces and nephews, cherished Dad and Papa and an irreplaceable husband. He will be dearly missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and adventure will live on, inspiring future generations to come.

Tom’s family wishes to thank the medical teams at Illinois Cancer Care and OSF Palliative Care for their kind, loving support throughout this journey.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Visitation and Service will be held from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm on Friday, May 15, 2026 at Mason Funeral Home Germantown Hills Chapel. Dinner is to follow for remembering and continued celebration of Tom’s life. Burial of Ashes will be in Henry Cemetery in Henry, IL at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Illinois Cancer Care (with emphasis on pancreatic cancer), 8940 North Wood Sage Road, Peoria, IL 61615 or to WCSEA (Woodford County Special Education Association), 205 South Englewood Drive, Metamora, IL 61548. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

DONATIONS:

Illinois Cancer Care, 8940 North Wood Sage Road, Peoria, IL 61615

WCSEA (Woodford County Special Education Association), 205 South Englewood Drive, Metamora, IL 61548