Memorial services for Thomas (Tom) Laney age 42 of West Point, NE will be on Saturday, September 23, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Oakland Evangelical Free Church in Oakland, NE. Tom passed away on Monday, September 11, 2023 in West Point, NE. Minnick Funeral Home in West Point is assisting with the arrangements.
Thomas Allen Laney was born on November 19, 1980 in Omaha, NE to Richard Laney and Cindy (Laney) Dillender. He grew up in Fremont, lived in Oakland and resided the last 20 years in Norfolk, NE.
Tom was born with cerebral palsy and succeeded many expectations. He was always happy as a child. In his later years as an adult, he loved giving his time with the Salvation Army. Tom participated in many activities with the church and traveled to many cities. He taught Sunday School and he just adored children as he babysat a lot.
Tom’s favorite past time was talking sports with his mom, he tried making it to as many Oakland-Craig games as he could. He was very good at Texas Hold’em and pool. He joined tournaments in Norfolk and made it to the state playoffs 13 times.
Even as Tom’s health declined, he valued his independence, his best friend Jake Lofquist would take him fishing. Tom was a very loving soul, his outward appearance did not match his inside.
Survivors include-
Mother-Cindy Dillender of Oakland, NE
Step-father-Chas Dillender
Brother-Robert Laney
Biological father-Richard Laney
Half-brother-Zach Laney
Half-sisters-Liz, Mary Ann, and Anna
Grandmothers-Elizabeth Bengston and Miriam Farnam
Many aunts, uncles, cousins and special friend Jake Lofquist also survive Tom.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather-Carl Bengston and uncle-Colin Kuntz.
The family would like to thank Hands of Heartland and Northstar Services for providing such great care to Tom. Memorials may be directed to the Oakland-Craig Booster Club.