Thomas A. Lem

Thomas A Lem passed away peacefully at age 67 on February 16, 2025 surrounded by the love of his family after a 28-month battle with brain cancer. He leaves behind a family who adored him, including his loving wife, Maura Lem (Nee Schenck), of 44 years together and cherished daughter, Marissa Lem, who was his pride and joy, along with countless amazing friends he called family, and father, sister and brother in-laws, nieces, nephews, plus a large and close Italian family of cousins who will all forever treasure his humor, generosity and unforgettable presence. Tom was preceded in death by his mother, father, mother-in law, aunts, uncles, several cousins and friends and favorite dog. He deeply missed them all. A man of genuine kindness, Tom had a rare gift to make anyone laugh, bringing joy to every room he entered. Beyond his quick wit he had a heart that put others first, always showing up for those who needed him. He would give the shirt off his back to anyone, never hesitating to help a friend, a neighbor, or even a stranger. Tom was a man of many talents and passions. Truly one of a kind no words are able to describe. A gifted singer and songwriter with a song published and many songs and jingles played on St Louis stations, he filled the air with music just as he filled hearts with laughter. He was an incredible storyteller, comedian, dancer, cook, a skilled “Missouri Big Buck” hunter and competitive fisherman organizing annual trips with friends, and a sharp pool player who rarely lost a game. He showed up and was the biggest and loudest fan at every single event for Marissa, cheered passionately for the Cardinals and Blues and loved Super Bowl Sundays. His favorite vacations included a blue ocean with white sand accompanied by friends and family. He put 110% into everything he did including 42 years of dedication as director of maintenance at Chesterfield Villas where he made sure “his building” and all the residents were well cared for and loved. Above all, Tom was someone who made life richer for everyone lucky enough to know him. While his absence leaves an ache in our hearts, we find comfort in the laughter he gave us, the love he shared, and the memories that will live on forever. A visitation will be held on February 28th from 4-8 pm at Schrader Funeral Home, 14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin, MO 63011 where we will gather to share stories and honor the incredible man he was. Funeral services will be held on March 1st at 11:00 am at Ascension Catholic Church, 230 Santa Maria Dr., Chesterfield, MO 63005. Burial services will follow the mass at Bellerive Gardens Cemetery, 740 N Mason Rd, Creve Coeur, MO 63141. In lieu of flowers, you can honor Tom by lending a helping hand to someone in need or simply making someone smile - just as he did every day. Donations can also be made in his memory to the Glioblastoma Foundation to support research and help others facing this disease: https://glioblastomafoundation.org/get-involved/donate.

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Thomas A. Lem

February 15, 1958 - February 16, 2025