Thomas Reinhiller Obituary

Thomas R. Reinhiller, 94, of Brookings, S.D., was born to Val and Susana (Remias) Reinhiller on April 3, 1931, on the family farm in Grant County, N.D. He was delivered by pioneer Dr. Lorenzen. He passed away on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at The Neighborhoods at Brookview in Brookings, SD. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday July 27, 2025, at the Birka Lutheran Church Cemetery in rural Washburn, ND, with fellowship to follow.

Thomas attended and graduated from Elgin Public Schools from 1938-1949. It was there that his lifelong love of sports began, as a participant in high school and college, later coaching high school athletes, and watching his sons and grandchildren compete in high school and in college.

Thomas proudly served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War conflict (1951-55), earning his honorable discharge as a petty officer (second class) and continuing with the North Dakota National Guard (1955-56). He graduated from Dickinson State Teachers College in 1959 with his bachelor's degree in education.

Thomas was a classroom educator and coach for 31 years, teaching in Mott, N.D., Washburn, N.D., Weisbaden, Germany (H.H. Arnold High School) and completing his professional career in Williston, N.D. He retired in 1990. Thomas was a lifetime member of the American Legion, National Education Association and the North Dakota Education Association.

Thomas married Carol June Swanson on April 15, 1965, in Glendive, Mont. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary this spring.

He is survived by his wife; brother Lincoln of Dickinson, N.D.; sons Mark (Nancy) of Geneva, Ill., and Michael of Estherville, Iowa; grandchildren Logan (Bradley) Tunge, Brock (Logan) Reinhiller, Taylor Reinhiller and Emily (Michael) Palmer; and seven great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his father and mother-in-law Hjalmer and Edna Swanson, and brothers Vernon and Merril.

Thomas enjoyed life, family, church, profession, major college football, and 35 years of retirement. Watching his beloved University of Michigan Wolverines play at both Michigan Stadium and the Rose Bowl were highlights of a well-lived life.

Thomas lived by his favorite quote: "Every day is a good day; some are better than others'' and also from 2 Timothy 4:7-8a: "I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness.''

Thomas will be dearly missed by his family and friends.