Tommy Sly
Goshen, IN |
Tommy Lee "Slydog" Sly, 61, died after a lengthy illness Aug. 11, 2010 at the VA Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Ind.
For the past 2 years, Tommy had made his home with his cousin and her husband, Julie and Michael Hopkins of Goshen. A native of Wood River, he was born March 18, 1949 in Alton to Johnie and Eloise (Yeck) Sly of Wood River. He graduated in 1967 from EA-WR Community High School.
A Vietnam veteran, he served in the Army from 1968-1970. Upon his return home, he joined the workforce and often joked that he had invented the 4-day work week. Obviously this was not what his employer had in mind, and he moved on, spending the majority of his years working for a barge line on the Mississippi.
He is survived by his brother, Danny Sly and wife Donna of Godfrey; two nephews of Indiana, Neil, wife Marie and son Ryan and Cory Sly and his wife Mindy; aunts and uncles Bill and Ann Yeck of Godfrey, Clinton and Lavon Cook of Wood River, Lynn and Betty Unterbrink of Springfield, Ill., Harold and Pat Sly of East Alton, and Lee Klunk of Collinsville; and numerous cousins.
Not only was he preceded in death by his parents, but also by his grandparents, whom he loved dearly, Lena Sly (Grandma Moose) and Mr. and Mrs. E.D. and Irene Yeck; and his aunt, Grace Eileen Klunk.
A lover of life and nature, Tommy was an avid outdoorsman. He loved boating and enjoyed collecting eagle memorabilia. A tough exterior but a heart of gold, few knew of the kindness he showed to other veterans and people in need.
He will be forever loved and greatly missed by his cousins, Julie and Michael Hopkins; his special caretaker Megan Hopkins; his little buddy whom he called "George", Colton O’Brien; and his cat Sam.
Living for years in Lake Ozark, Mo., he is being returned to the place he called home, as per his wishes. No visitation is planned. A private family memorial and celebration of life is being held in October at Lake Ozark. Condolences and any special memories of Tommy one would like to share can be sent to Julie Hopkins at 14591 Falcon Lane, Goshen, IN 46526 or an email may be sent to
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