Thomas S. V. Bartlett, Jr. Obituary

Thomas S. V. Bartlett, Jr.

December 31, 1947 - April 15, 2015
Springfield, Illinois

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Memories & Candles

“Life is too short. Let's always remember the good times we shared! ”
1 of 23 | Posted by: Vince Veseling - Springfield, IL

“My greatest sympathy goes out to Boyd and Shelley. Our family spent much time with them in Chicago and then moved to Flossmoor at the same time. ...Read More » ”
2 of 23 | Posted by: Janet Hoffman - Elgin, IL

“Met Tommy in 1966 aboard the USS Piper. We servered on two boats together. Though we lost contact for about 40 years I never lost memory of him....Read More » ”
3 of 23 | Posted by: Chris Haley - Wilmington, NC

“On behalf of the United States Submarine Veterans (On USSVI), we offer our sincere condolences to Jeani and all of the Bartlett family and friends...Read More » ”
4 of 23 | Posted by: Bob Reinisch - Idaho Falls, ID

“Betty and I have some funny and fond memories of life with Tom. They include first hearing Stairway to Heaven, submarine showers , Bucher and Toms's...Read More » ”
5 of 23 | Posted by: Vince Veseling - Springfield, IL

“I knew Tom for only four years, but we built a friendship of caring that was deeper than our surface differences. I knew his heart of love that his...Read More » ”
6 of 23 | Posted by: Teresa Bristol - Girard, IL

“I'm so sorry for your family's loss. 67 sounds so old when we were teenagers but now that I am 66 it does not seem like that is the time for end of...Read More » ”
7 of 23 | Posted by: John Benshoof - Friend

“Tom was a customer at the restaurant where I work who became my good friend he always was willing to share a meal and a movie . His love of music...Read More » ”
8 of 23 | Posted by: Ann Brand - springfield, IL

“Cattle drivers used to say that a man who knew and did his job well; could always be trusted; and would always have a friend's back was a "good hand...Read More » ”
9 of 23 | Posted by: Andrew Brown - Springfield, IL

“We moved in next door (ok..a house away) from the Bartletts when I was 5 years old. Apparently I went over and knocked on the door and asked for...Read More » ”
10 of 23 | Posted by: Corey Entinghe - Springfield, IL

“My dad always said that life is like a ladder and we are slowly making our way up to the top of the ladder during our lifetime not knowing what...Read More » ”
11 of 23 | Posted by: Jessica Krisfalusi - Springfield, IL

“Tom was a true shipmate whose pride in being a Corporal crew member was contagious and resulted in the opportunities for many of us to rekindle...Read More » ”
12 of 23 | Posted by: Phil Recht, LT, USNR - West Bend, WI

“This is one of my favorite pics of T and our grandparents. He is just so damn happy here. He's heading back to New London and the submarine USS...Read More » ”
13 of 23 | Posted by: RennyBartlett - Fort Collins, CO

14 of 23 | Posted by: Andrew Bartlett - Springfield, IL

“Thinking of the Bartlett family and remembering summer fun. T will be missed Jody Baker Hoffman ”
15 of 23 | Posted by: Jody Hoffman - Waxhaw, NC

“Tom was a big hit at Craig's Pond, Maine. He had a big personality , a kind heart and the kids loved him. His ability to tell stories was masterful....Read More » ”
16 of 23 | Posted by: Lisa and Jim Bryan - Alexandria, VA

“Tom served well his country and his Navy. He was a pleasure to have on board. In later years he was instrumental in organizing a series of reunions...Read More » ”
17 of 23 | Posted by: Jean Paul Sheets - Seattle, WA

“I worked with Tom at DCFS for several years and remember him as a good friend. Tom was very knowledgable and always had a keen sense of humor. I will...Read More » ”
18 of 23 | Posted by: Bob Trainor - Springfield, IL

“I have wonderful memories of playing in our Main Street backyard with T, Rennie, and Shelley! And visiting the Bartletts at the cabin on Dyce's Head...Read More » ”
19 of 23 | Posted by: Maggie Baker - Castine, ME

“"T" was my best friend. You could count on his help for anything. From the time we were little kids , thru to the end, he was always there for me. ...Read More » ”
20 of 23 | Posted by: Renny Bartlett - Fort Collins, CO

“Andrew, your Dad was always so upbeat and funny! I know he went by and picked up the dog on Rainbow Ridge.. Prayers of comfort to you and your family...Read More » ”
21 of 23 | Posted by: L Kennedy - springfield, IL

“My heartfelt sympathy and prayers to Rennie and Shelley and Tom's family. So many wonderful childhood memories with T and the Bartletts. I will...Read More » ”
22 of 23 | Posted by: Martha Thompson Sadler - MN

“I'll always remember Tom's smiling face when I first saw him some 35+ years after I'd left the boat. It was one of the earlier reunions. I'll miss...Read More » ”
23 of 23 | Posted by: Don Riggs (Riggsy) - Asbury, NJ

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Thomas Shelley Vallette Bartlett, Jr., 67, of Springfield, died at 10:54 p.m. on Wednesday, April 15, 2015 peacefully at his home surrounded by family.

Tom was born December 31, 1947 in Chicago, the son of Thomas Shelley Vallette and Louise Reynolds Bartlett, Sr. Growing up, Tom and his family spent a great deal of time in Maine. By age 16, he was working in the summer as a crew member on windjammers (Including the Victory Chimes) off of the coast of Maine. In 1965 Tom graduated from Homewood-Flossmoor High School and would then attend Hanover College in Indiana for a short time.

In May of 1966 Tom enrolled in the United States Navy and would spend the next 4 years proudly serving his country. He started off in the seamanship gang aboard the USS Piper SS409. During the Fall of 1967, Tom was transferred to the USS Corporal SS346 where he worked as an oiler and eventually an engine man. Aboard this diesel submarine, he would travel the world to such places as the Arctic Circle, France, Spain, Monte Carlo, Scotland, and much more. In recent years, Tom was one of the key factors in reuniting the men of this submarine. With help from other shipmates, he contacted several men that no one had heard from in years and even helped organize a series of reunions. Along with the reunions, he started the website http://www.ss346.com where people could go to learn more about their sub and its history. He would continue to manage this site for his last 10 years.

After being honorably discharged from the Navy in April 1970, Tom moved to Miami for a short time and eventually ended up in Springfield, IL attending Lincoln Land Community College and working two jobs. It is here that he met Jeanette Putting, who would eventually become his wife and mother of their children. In early 1973, the adventurous souls that they were, Tom & Jeani jumped in his van and headed west to California. They would spend the next year traveling around California, living out of his van, and working miscellaneous jobs. Jeani's grandmother became ill which brought them back to Springfield. Tom and Jeani eventually settled up in Flossmoor, IL where they would marry and start a family.

Moving forward, Tom had many great accomplishments and also faced many challenges in his life. Some of these highlights include:

- Lived in Chicago -> Miami -> Springfield -> California -> Springfield -> Chicago -> Strongsville, OH -> Rockwall, TX -> Springfield
- Was married 26+ years (and remained good friends until the very end)
- Raised 3 successful children
- Enjoyed 3 grandchildren (2 in Seattle and 1 in Springfield)
- Raised 4 Golden Retrievers (whom were like children)
- Remained close with his 2 siblings
- Worked as a taxi cab driver, volunteer fireman, and in the Steel Mills in Gary, IN early on
- Chaired the Bi-Centennial Celebration Committee for hometown at Mayor's request
- Held an IL Real Estate Broker's license for 33 years
- Bought & resold 400 residential homes annually for 3 years for major corporations
- Principal speaker at numerous seminars of up to 1,000 people throughout the country (see "documents" photo album for subjects he spoke about and places he spoke)
- Met & spoke with Henry Kissinger at one of these seminars (see photo in album)
- Quoted in the Wall Street Journal (see "documents" photo album)
- Published in numerous trade publications (see "documents" photo album)
- Achieved 89% sales closing ratio at United Van Lines over a 2 year period
- Bid, contracted, & supervised moving the Illinois State Library collection (took 30 days)
- Worked as Budget Analysis for 23+ years for the Illinois Department of Children & Family Services until his retirement in January 2015
- Diagnosed with small cell lung cancer in July 2013 and courageously battled cancer for almost 2 years, exceeding everyone's expectations

Tom had a huge passion for long road trips and all genres of music. He had the opportunity to see many of the greatest bands of all time including:

· Attended original Woodstock in 1969
· Led Zeppelin
· The Who
· Janice Joplin
· Deep Purple
· Cream
· Moody Blues
· The Animals (even partied with them!)
· Roy Orbison
· Crosby, Stills & Nash
· Elton John
· and many more

*Within the first 3-5 seconds of any song before 1980, Tom could tell you the Artist, the name of the song and usually some sort of history about the band or song.

Tom was a family man and would have given the shirt off of his back for his family and friends, never expecting anything in return. He was funny and absolutely loved telling jokes. Tom was detail-oriented, extremely smart, and the most practical person one would ever know. He was also very outspoken & direct but you know he was always being truthful. Thomas, Tom, "T," "Tommy," "Dad," "Grampie," and "Bae Bae," (or any other name one might have called him) will sure be missed by so many but should be proud of the legacy he leaves behind.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his former wife, Jeani Fancher of Mason City; two sons, Thomas S. V. (wife, Sinia) Bartlett III of Seattle, WA and Andrew R. Bartlett of Springfield; daughter, Jessica L. (husband, Steven) Krisfalusi of Springfield; three grandchildren, Katie Bartlett, Wesley Bartlett, and Brendan Krisfalusi; siblings, Boyd (wife, Janet) Bartlett of Fort Collins, CO and Shelley (husband, Don) Small of Castine, ME; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Cremation was accorded by Lincoln Land Cremation Society.

The family will host a Celebration of Life from 10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, 2015 at the Springfield Motorboat Club, 17 W. Club Area, Springfield, IL 62712.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Rd, Springfield, IL 62702 or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38101-9908.

Memories & Candles

Page: 1 of 3

Life is too short. Let's always remember the good times we shared!

Posted by: Vince Veseling - Springfield, IL - friend Apr 12, 2021

My greatest sympathy goes out to Boyd and Shelley. Our family spent much time with them in Chicago and then moved to Flossmoor at the same time. Haven't had contact since High School but, kept up with their achievements from Tom's parents. I remember Tom as fun, adventurous and always kind to me, the little tomboy who hung out with them. I always looked up to Tom and he put up with me playing hockey with the guys in their

... more

Posted by: Janet Hoffman - Elgin, IL - friend of family May 16, 2015

Met Tommy in 1966 aboard the USS Piper. We servered on two boats together. Though we lost contact for about 40 years I never lost memory of him. These last 10 years have been good to have an old friend back in my life. Made several trips to visit with him and will miss like a brother. I loved being able to just chat with him any time about anything just to be in touch. Rest easy my brother I miss you.
Dirt

Posted by: Chris Haley - Wilmington, NC - Life long friend Apr 30, 2015

On behalf of the United States Submarine Veterans (On USSVI), we offer our sincere condolences to Jeani and all of the Bartlett family and friends in your loss and sorrow. May God whisper peace into your hearts and comfort and heal them. We are grateful for Tom's service to our country in the U.S. Submarine Service. To our Brother of the Dolphin "Sailor, rest your oar. We have the watch. May you rest in peace and may God bless your

... more

Posted by: Bob Reinisch - Idaho Falls, ID Apr 29, 2015

Betty and I have some funny and fond memories of life with Tom. They include first hearing Stairway to Heaven, submarine showers , Bucher and Toms's yellow van. Tom and his family will remain in our prayers.

Posted by: Vince Veseling - Springfield, IL Apr 24, 2015

I knew Tom for only four years, but we built a friendship of caring that was deeper than our surface differences. I knew his heart of love that his bravado couldn't hide.
When we first met, I shared that I had written a book that was on Amazon and I wanted to submit it also in the digital format but I couldn't figure out how to do it. He generously offered to do it - saying he was pretty

... more

Posted by: Teresa Bristol - Girard, IL - friend Apr 24, 2015

I'm so sorry for your family's loss. 67 sounds so old when we were teenagers but now that I am 66 it does not seem like that is the time for end of life, in fact it is to soon for any of us to be recalled. I kept in touch with Boyd and he told me of the poor health "T" was in. I am glad he did not suffer any longer than he did. Take comfort in the

... more

Posted by: John Benshoof - Friend Apr 24, 2015

Tom was a customer at the restaurant where I work who became my good friend he always was willing to share a meal and a movie . His love of music will always be with he made me a collection of some of his favorites. He was very proud of his children parents and siblings. We spent many hours looking at photos videos and he sharing his memories of them. He was proud of his time in the Navy he

... more

Posted by: Ann Brand - springfield, IL - friend Apr 23, 2015

Cattle drivers used to say that a man who knew and did his job well; could always be trusted; and would always have a friend's back was a "good hand to ride with". Tom was a good hand to ride with.

Posted by: Andrew Brown - Springfield, IL - friend Apr 22, 2015

We moved in next door (ok..a house away) from the Bartletts when I was 5 years old. Apparently I went over and knocked on the door and asked for Andrew who was in kindergarten with me. Since that time Andrew is been a best friend, the best man in my wedding, God father to my daughter and nearly a brother. I'm sure growing up Tom (and Jeani) had to beat our butts is few times along with the other kids

... more

Posted by: Corey Entinghe - Springfield, IL - Close enough to Family Apr 22, 2015

Page: 1 of 3

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My Brother, the manager. If ever there was one, "T" as we kids called him, was it! I think he started managing me from the day I was born. Decisions were easy, just ask T. We had a rock and roll band in high school and T was our manager. He would get us gigs to play at high schools, dances and other venues. He was a great manager. He did all the things we didn't want to do and you know, he did this through out his whole life and he was good at it. At times I think he missed his calling, but he did a great job at managing me, his family and any thing he was associated with. He was especially good at managing the girls. I wouldn't be surprised if his head stone read Tom... READ MORE →

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Posted by Boyd Bartlett from Fort Collins, CO - brother on
April 23, 2015

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