Obituaries : Eugene Thomas Lennie, Jr.

Eugene Thomas Lennie, Jr., of Luzerne, IA, passed away peacefully in his home, on September 20, 2025 at the age of 69. Born on July 12, 1956, in Marshalltown, Iowa, Tom was the son of Eugene Thomas Lennie, Sr. and Marlis Jane (Smith) Lennie. He was raised in Tama, IA, where he developed a deep sense of family, a strong work ethic, and a love for the outdoors.

Tom dedicated 27.5 years of his life to the Union Pacific Railroad (formerly Chicago & Northwestern), retiring in 2000. His years of hard work and loyalty to his job left a lasting impact on those around him.

On November 23, 1974, Tom married his lifelong love, Diane Kay Yilek. Together, they shared over five decades of happiness and raised four sons who brought him immense pride: Ben (Melissa) Lennie of Keystone, IA, Nicholas (Amy) Lennie of Colo, IA, Curt (Sara) Lennie of Overland Park, KS, and Eric Lennie (Michelle Burken) of Cedar Rapids, IA. Tom’s love for his family, especially his eight grandchildren, was boundless. He treasured every moment spent with them, whether it was playing games, telling silly grandpa jokes and stories, or simply enjoying the outdoors together.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene Thomas Lennie, Sr. and Marlis Jane (Smith) Lennie, his sister Sandra Mitchell, Debbie Lennie, and his brothers Bruce Lennie and Kevin Lennie, and special dog, Sam.  Along with his sisters, Cheryl Bowden, Candi Howell, and Dawn Vest, he is survived by his devoted wife, Diane Lennie; his sons and their families; and his eight beloved grandchildren (Kaydn, Colby, Kayla, Emma, Addison, Sydney, Kenna, and Greyson); who will carry on his legacy of love, joy, and resilience.

Outside of his work and family life, Tom enjoyed woodworking, fishing, and camping—activities that allowed him to connect with nature and find peace. He was a man who found joy in the simple pleasures and who always made time for the things and people he loved.

A visitation will be held at Hrabak-Neuhaus Funeral Service in Belle Plaine Sunday, Sept 28, 2025 from 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM with a celebration of life to follow at the Masonic Lodge, Belle Plaine from 2:00 – 5:00PM. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a charity of your choice in Tom’s memory.

Tom will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His legacy of love, devotion, and joy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have him in their lives.

The family would like to extend their appreciation to Care Initiatives Hospice for the special care provided Tom.