Thomas L Scott

Thomas L. Scott, age 82, of Chesterton, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Northwest Hospital in Valparaiso, Indiana, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on May 29, 1943, in Phillippi, Tennessee, Tom was the son of the late Herman Lester Scott and Monta Pugh Williams. He was a proud 1960 graduate of Chesterton High School and, in that same year, answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Air Force. He served honorably from 1960 to 1963, carrying with him a deep sense of duty and patriotism throughout his life.

On October 26, 1973, Tom married the love of his life, Thelma Alumbaugh Scott, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned over 52 years. Together, they built a life rooted in love, resilience, and family.

Tom dedicated more than 37 years of hard work and craftsmanship as a union steelworker and welder at Bethlehem Steel in Burns Harbor, retiring in 2009. Known for his strong work ethic and unwavering determination, he took great pride in providing for his family and in the legacy of labor he left behind.

A man of the outdoors, Tom found his greatest joy in nature—whether hunting in the quiet woods or casting a line into the water. Some of his most cherished moments were spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, patiently teaching them how to fish in the pond behind his home. In his younger years, he also enjoyed bowling, forming friendships and memories that lasted a lifetime. He also had a deep affection for his beloved pets, especially his loyal dog, Goldie, who preceded him in death, and his cherished cat, Jake. Their companionship brought him comfort and joy throughout the years.

Tom will be remembered as a man of remarkable strength, steadfast will, and a warm sense of humor that brought smiles to those around him. Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose presence will be deeply missed and forever treasured.

He is survived by his loving wife, Thelma Scott; his children, Barbara Pinks (Roger), Darrin Scott (Amy), and Lynn Wilke (Dru); his brother, Jerry Scott (Loretta); ten grandchildren, Thomas Scott (Olga), Rachel Blackwood, David Holm (Elizabeth), Lauren Scott, Adrienne Rosenbaum (Kyle), Kaiti Scott, Alexis Akers (Dakoda), Carter Savage, Samantha Savage, and Abby Wilke; and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Scott; and his siblings, Bill Scott, Marge Troke, Katie Gardener, Sally Mooney, and Hazel Castle.

A memorial service with military honors will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services in LaPorte. Visitation will take place from 11:00 AM until the time of service at the funeral home.

Tom’s legacy of love, strength, and quiet generosity will live on in all who knew him.