Thomas Boots
After a brave and long fight against cancer, Thomas L. Boots, 54, of Harpers Ferry passed away peacefully at 7 a.m. Sunday, January 3, 2021 at Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon. Graveside services will be held Wednesday, January 6 at 11 a.m. at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.
A celebration of life will then be held from 3-5 p.m. Wednesday, January 6 at the Portside Bar and Supper Club in Harpers Ferry. In lieu of flowers, donations are appreciated for the American Legion Post #722, 118 North Fourth Street, Harpers Ferry, IA 52146. Martin-Grau Funeral Home in Waukon is assisting the family.
Thomas Lee Boots was born February 9, 1966 to Kenneth and Carmelita (Cahill) Boots. Though Tom did live in La Crosse, WI for a short period of his life, and was born in Dubuque, he was a lifelong resident of Harpers Ferry and loved the “Mississippi River Rat” life.
He attended school in Waterville and Waukon. Tom was employed by Badger Corrugating Lumber in La Crosse, WI, 3M Corporation and Cabela’s in Prairie Du Chien, WI, and also did carpenter work for local businesses. From 1984 to 1987, Tom proudly served in the U.S. Army, stationed at Fort Bliss, TX, and then in Korea. He was a member of Harpers Ferry American Legion Post #722. For 10 years, Tom also served on the Harpers Ferry City Council and loved helping with all town events.
Tom was an avid carpenter, hunter and fisherman, and was a devout and stout Chicago Bears fan (you knew not to debate who was better - Bears or Packers). But, most of all, Tom’s passion and focus in life was his son, Kameron. He loved to brag about and spend time with Kameron and enjoyed attending his school events.
Tom was preceded in death by his father and mother; his brother, Jerry Kinny; his sister, Judy Barnhart; and his brother, Kenny “Boob” Boots. He is survived by his son, Kameron Boots of Harpers Ferry; his brother, James (Richard) Giglio-Kinny of Boston, MA; his sister, Cindy Humphrey of Butte, MT; his sister, Patty (Jim) Hamilton of Wichita, KS; his brother, Micheal Boots of Minneapolis, MN; his brother, Bob Boots of Wichita, KS; and his beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews.
Tom was also blessed with many close friends. He will be remembered as a devoted son, brother, father and friend. His sense of humor will never be forgotten.
The family of Tom would like to extend our sincere appreciation for the overwhelming support of the citizens of Harpers Ferry and to all Tom’s friends. A special thank you is given to Dr. Schwartz and his staff at Waukon Veterans Memorial Hospital, who went above and beyond to provide exceptional and compassionate care and who made his last days comfortable.
Online condolences may be left at www.martinfunerals.com.
