Reichard

Thomas Alfred Reichard, formerly of Freeport, passed away Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026.

He was born Oct. 10, 1954.

Thomas was a 1972 graduate of Freeport High School.

Thomas was not an “in-between” person. He was extremely cut and dry. He was a very well-rounded and knowledgeable person, including history and politics. More than anything else, he was known for his detailed storytelling. This lovingly gave him the nickname of “flappy pappy” by his grandchildren. Thomas loved to share his knowledge and was always ready for a debate. He could be a very kind-hearted but yet a very stubborn person at the same time. No matter what, he would, and did, fight to the end for what he believed was right.

Right out of high school, Thomas worked for the railroad company. He then bought his own semitruck and ran his own business until he was hired at Thrower Concrete, from which he retired to Florida after 30 years.

Thomas had many hobbies, which included reloading, flying remote air planes, competing with his Shiloh Sharps Buffalo Gun, working on car engines, co-piloting small aircraft, hunting, fishing, camping and spending time with his grandchildren. He also loved traveling the countryside with his wife, either in their camper, their 1967 Shelby GT500 or on their Honda Valkyrie motorcycle.

Although he will be missed by many here on earth, he is now reunited with his family and friends who passed before him.

He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Lori (Montgomery) Reichard; his children, Lori A. Reichard, Barbie Reichard and Kurt Reichard; his stepchildren, Chasity Jones, Fawn (Jeff) Bomar, Misty (Dan) Stobert, Nikki (Todd) Bain and Craig Lombardi.

Thomas is also survived by his grandchildren, Dusti “DR” Bomar, Derrian, Kaelin Alcorn, Hazel “Chubbers” Lombardi, Bronsyn “Elvis” Switala, Olivia Meadows, Kolby “Cheeser” Switala, Jacob “Tanker” Lombardi, Sadies “MercyB123” Bain, Dakota Baker, Lj Bomar, Thomie “Stinkbug” Bain, Harvey Bomar, Alex Myers and Flynn Reichard. Also surviving are his siblings, Karen Wasielewski, William Reichard and Linda (Brian) Barr; along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Billy Reichard; his mother, Phyllis (Schreckengost) McKenna; and an infant sister, Kimberly Reichard.

As per Thomas' wishes, there was a private celebration of life held on Jan. 26, 2026, for immediate family. There will also be separate celebrations of life on future dates, one being for his Florida friends and one in the summer for his Pennsylvania family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please send any donation to St. Jude’s Hospital in memory of Thomas, as that was his charity of choice.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.