Thomas E. Portell was born on January 14, 1945 in St. Louis, MO. He was the son of Homer and Mary Theresa (nee Bourisaw) Portell, both of whom precede him in death.
He passed peacefully accompanied by his wife and family on August 18, 2024, at Hillcrest Care Center at the age of 79.
Tom attended St. Rose of Lima Catholic grade school and was a member of the first graduating class of St. Pius High School in 1963.
He is survived by his wife Ann (nee Ridenour) Portell of De Soto. Tom and Ann were married on November 28, 1970 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. Also survived by his children, Amy (Jeff) Coomes, De Soto, Aaron (Heather) Portell, Hillsboro and Amanda (Liz) Portell, Troy; grandsons, Dalton Coomes, Austin Coomes, Tristan Jacobson and Logan Jacobson; one sister, Barbara Ann (Robert) Mottin, Chesterfield; several cousins including a special cousin Bud Portell; his lifetime friend Gerry Fink and remaining special friends Butch Hubbard, Randy Compton and Mike Christopher. He will also be missed by his pet Shih-Poo of 14 years Callie.
Tom had retired after 37 years of employment with Ben H. Franklen Construction in June of 2004. Member of Laborers’ International Union of North American Local #110 and had received a certificate of Achievement for 55 years of service with both the Local and International Union.
In younger years Tom loved racing his 1963 Chevy Impala SS down Highway 21 from NN section to AmVets Drive. He loved his Camaros also. He developed a love for bowling and participated in leagues at Quonset Lanes. Later in life he enjoyed becoming a farmer raising cattle and hay. Eventually he had the opportunity to travel in his R.V. At the end of his traveling the United States he became a resident of the state of Texas living in Alamo, TX. His greatest enjoyment though was his family, especially his grandsons.
As an expression of sympathy memorial donations may be made to Compass Health Network. The family would also like to thank Preferred Hospice for the care Tom received for the last 15 months.
