Thomas H. Sires
July 24, 1934 – August 27, 2023
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Professor Emeritus Thomas Henry Sires, whose life was marked by an unwavering dedication to education, soaring adventures, his beautiful family, and a remarkable talent for mechanics. Professor Sires, who dedicated 52 years of his life to shaping young minds at the University of Nebraska Omaha, passed away on August 27, 2023, in Omaha Nebraska, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire awe and admiration.
Born on July 24th, 1934, in La Crosse WI, Professor Sires’ life was driven by diverse passions.
As an esteemed college professor, Professor Sires embodied the true spirit of mentorship. He wasn’t merely an educator; he was a guiding light, encouraging his students to explore, question, and grow their passion for engineering and mathematics. His dedication and leadership of programs such as Math Engineering Science Achievement (MESA) opened doors for students of diverse backgrounds, and his championing of fun and engaging events like concrete canoe competitions, made learning accessible and exciting.
Beyond his illustrious academic career, he was also an accomplished pilot, and he possessed an unparalleled knack for mechanics; from the intricacies of automobiles to the inner workings of aircraft, his capable hands and sharp mind could fix just about anything with a combustion engine. His ingenuity and ability to bring life back to failing vehicles was a personal point of pride, much to the chagrin of his patient family.
Professor Sires’ talents extended beyond academia and mechanics. Most importantly, he was a devoted father, a cherished grandfather, and great-grandfather. His stories, humor, and presence brought joy to countless family gatherings. He loved taking his many family members and friends on plane rides in “Sally”, camping and boating at Lake McConaughey, NE, and going on far-ranging adventures from Calgary to Cologne.
Professor Sires was preceded in death by his first wife of 20 years Mary; his devoted mother, Helen Giesen; his father, Marvin “Chappy” Sires; siblings, Bill Sires, Mary Jane Sires, and Charlie Sires. Tom’s legacy lives on through his surviving family members, including his loving wife of 49 years, Claudie; children: Mike (Karen) Sires, Theresa (Mark) Charbonneau, Tomi (Mark) Moos, Nellie (Grism) Sires; brothers, Don (Donna) Sires, Phil (Claudia) Ervin; nine grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren (with one more coming soon!). As they remember his kind heart, generous humor, and insatiable curiosity, they are reminded to embrace life’s complexities with the same spirit of adventure and determination.
Rest in peace, Tom, knowing that your legacy lives on through the stories, the knowledge, and the love you shared with the world.
VISITATION: Friday Sept 1, 2023, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Christ the King Catholic Church, 654 S 86th St., with a VIGIL SERVICE directly following. FUNERAL SERVICES: Saturday Sept 2, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., at Christ the King. INTERMENT: Calvary Cemetery. To view a live broadcast of the Service, please go to www.heafeyheafey.com and click the “Live Cast” button at the top of the home page.
9 Comments
So sorry to hear of Tom‘s passing. I always enjoyed the chance to visit with him. Tom was a fine gentleman and highly esteemed by his family and students. God grant His comfort and peace to Tom’s family!
I’ sorry to hear of Dr. Sires’ passing. I have a fond memory of him. In the Fall of 1968 I took the first semester course in calculus. Although I got a “C”, I didn’t really understand it. In the Spring of 1971, just out of the Marine Corps, I started college at UNO fulltime. Because it had been over two years since I had taken that calculus I course, my advisor recommended I retake that course or take a tech problems course taught by Dr. Sires to refresh the mathematical concepts leading up to and including differential calculus. I chose Dr. Sires’ course. I have been in his debt ever since. He explained calculus in a way I could understand. I went on to earn a civil engineering degree and spent over 31 years working as an engineer. Had it not been for Dr. Sires, I might never have gotten into engineering.
I’m sorry to hear of Dr. Sires death. As a former student of his, I know he was an awesome teacher.
My condolences to Tom’s family. Denver truly enjoyed working with Tom at UNO and appreciated his mentorship and friendship for many years. He was a special man and has left a legacy for many.
Jo Ann Schmadeke
We are so saddened to hear of Tom’s passing. We always enjoyed when Tom & Claudie would come to town (Clay Center, Kansas) and we had the chance to visit. We know he lived a great life and lived many years, however we also know for all of you who loved him, it is with very heavy hearts to let him go. May God’s love surround you during this difficult time and give you strength to remember Tom and smile. Tessie & Max
Claudie, Nellie and family, I was so sorry to hear about Tom. He was such a kind man. May God grant you comfort in the many memories you have of Tom. RIP Dr.Sires. You have earned your reward in heaven,
Nellie, I am sorry for the loss of your father. My you find peace in your memories. Always trust in the Lord.
Farewell, my good friend and mentor. You will be missed by thousands of us here on Earth.
With sympathy to the family.
Nellie Sires, Winner in the Crayola Dreammakers Art Content, you must have made your Dad very proud. You opened the Christ the King Catholic School Book, 1994-95.
The life story of Professor Sires is a beautiful story. It must bring you comfort now and for years to come.
Dr. Barbara Brundo
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