- Date Of Birth: July 22, 1950
- Date Of Death: October 13, 2021
- State: New Mexico
Thomas “Tom” Willis moved to Heaven on Wednesday, October 13, 2021 at the age of 71.
Tom was deeply loved by his family, including his wife of 41 years Christy Willis; children: Erik Willis, Summer Willis, Shawna Wetterman (Don); granddaughter Parker Willis; and brother James Willis. He was adored by his many in-laws, nieces and nephews. He is already missed by all.
He was born in 1950 in Austin, TX and moved to Albuquerque, NM in 1976. Tom was always a man of few words, but his love and actions spoke volumes. He held a steadfast faith and love for his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He loved and supported his family in all ways. He was a wonderful husband and father. Tom attended Calvary Church for 35 years and supported the youth in whatever ways he could.
Tom has been a restauranteur in Albuquerque for the last 44 years. He began as the sub-lease operator of Pelican’s Restaurant, and went on to open Cafe Oceana, Prairie Star, Cafe Oceana Dallas, 66 Diner, and several Cold Stone franchises. He has always been a visionary. He walked into an old building on Central Ave.
More important than his ability to create an appealing establishment, was his heart for “his peeps”—his staff. He enjoyed them, encouraged them, worried over them, and deeply cared for each individual. Tom didn’t consider himself a people person, but he was. His friends, children’s friends, peers, employees, business associates, and family all like, love and respect Tom.
Tom also appreciated all things 50’s retro: the music, the cars, the decor, and the food. He owns a couple of 1950’s automobiles. He was always on the lookout for signs and memorabilia to enhance his space on Route 66. His PEZ collection is a thing to behold. He was a long standing member and officer in the Route 66 Association.
When not working, Tom enjoyed off-road Jeeping. The steeper, rockier, gnarlier the trail, the more he enjoyed it. He also loved camping and traveling in his RV. He would go as often and as far as time would allow. He was always ready for a new adventure.
Tom was one of the good guys. Forever loved. Forever missed.
