Continuing the Crook County News Since 1884

Thomas Allen VanLuvan

Thomas Allen VanLuvan will always be remembered for his courage during difficult times. Unfortunately, this time the pain was too difficult, and we lost Thomas during the night of February 14, 2023, at 21 years old in Sundance, Wyoming.

Thomas was born May 6, 2001, in Spearfish, South Dakota. He grew up in Sundance and graduated from Hulett High School in 2019.

Thomas had a passion for all things mechanical and labor related. He loved to learn the ways of the trade – something that was sparked within him after spending countless hours in Papa Vernon's garage.

His hobbies included welding, John Deere tractors, music, campfires, hunting, fishing and driving every car like he stole it. Thomas may have had a habit of arriving late, but when he did finally arrive the entire room would light up.

Thomas cherished his family and his friends greatly, gave the best bear hugs and was everyone's BIG little brother. He never knew a stranger and never hesitated to share his home or his time.

Thomas had an infectious personality. He was clever and witty, silly, playfully ornery and always ready with a comeback.

Grateful to have shared in his life are his mother, Kari (Shawn) of Huron, South Dakota; his brother, Steven VanLuvan of Kirksville, Missouri; grandma, Arna Montgomery of Sundance; great-grandma, Pat Duca of Sundance; grandparents, James (Rose) VanLuvan of Moberly, Missouri; aunt, Trista (Anthony) Carbajal of Belle Fourche, South Dakota; uncle, "T" Tristan (Amber) Tilberg of Rapid City, South Dakota; cousins, Austin (Kaitlyn), Haley, Brayden, Aleyah, Joyah, Porter, Collins; second cousin, Janine (Tim) Reinhardt of Laramie, Wyoming; and great aunt, Vina Morris of Newcastle Wyoming. 

Welcoming him with open arms at the gates of Heaven were his "Ole Man" papa, Vernon Montgomery; great grandpa, Arnold Duca; great aunt, Diana Hooper; and great grandparents, Thomas and Lucille Pearce.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be presented to a community organization advocating for the health and well-being of young adults.

Memorial service was held Tuesday February 21, 2023 at United Methodist Church in Sundance, with graveside service following at Green Mountain Cemetery at Sundance. A luncheon followed at the Crook County Courthouse Community Room.

Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Roberts & Isburg Funeral Chapel of Sundance. Online condolences may be written at http://www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com.