Stevenson & Sons Funeral Homes

Serving families in the Miles City, Forsyth, Lame Deer, Broadus, Circle, Jordan and Terry areas for three generations.

For Immediate Help Call
Miles City: 406-232-4457 — Forsyth: 406-346-2311

In Memory Of

Thomas Zook, age 85, of Miles City.

January 29, 1932 – January 23, 2018

Thomas Frederick Zook, age 85, of Miles City passed away on Tuesday, January 23, 2018 at St. Vincent Healthcare in Billings.

Tom was born in Miles City, Montana on January 29, 1932 to Fritz and Maretta Zook. His parents brought him home on the 20th of February, the last few miles in a sled because there was so much snow on their side of the divide. He joined his older sister Margaret (Hoff) and his brother Johnnie. Six years later little brother Bill was born. Dad was a rambunctious boy! He became ambidextrous after running his right arm through the Maytag wringer washing machine.

Tom started his education at the Leonard Section one room school and graduated from CCDHS in 1950. He had jobs delivering papers and dry cleaning so knew every street of Miles City. He was captain of his football team and named all state as a quarterback and linebacker his senior year. Tom loved every minute of it. He excelled in baseball. He was known for throwing wicked curve balls becoming the leading pitcher in American Legion Baseball in 1949.

Tom joined the Navy. He was sent to Hawaii where he worked as an aviation mechanic. When his father died, Tom returned to the ranch. His paternal grandparents were pioneers in Montana and Miles City. Tom was a steward of the land all his life, with the Zook ranch reaching centennial status. He especially loved good dogs, horses, and alfalfa seed crops.

Tom got great pleasure playing his guitar at country dances all over eastern MT. He couldn’t read a lick of music but taught himself to play guitar when he was 12. His Gibson guitar that he hauled to many country dances and played many hours at home, was a graduation present from his aunt and sister. Nearly every night we kids went to sleep in the basement listening to Dad play the guitar. Music was a great source of comfort to us all.

Tom married Isabel (Tootie) Cameron on April 15, 1958. Tom was an extraordinary father to seven children. He raised his kids firmly and lovingly. Dad was so pleased when all his kids earned college degrees, something he did not have the opportunity to do. Dad and Mom were a great team, and he loved her tenderly, caring for all her needs the last few years. The bar has been set. Thank you, Dad.

Tom served 8 consecutive legislative sessions. It was an experience beyond his expectations highlighted by serving as Chairman of the Appropriation’s Committee and the Senate Finance Committee. He was known for diplomacy, integrity, and bi-partisan leadership. He thrived on problem solving all his lifetime, and served as a PCA director and a CCDHS unified school board member.

Tom had lung cancer and he and his children wish to thank ALL the caregivers and hospital cooks he has had. His last couple of weeks in the Holy Rosary Hospital and St. Vincent Healthcare were special to him. He was kind towards all he met and they reciprocated with loving care. Tom had great faith and was prepared when he died January 23, 2018.

Survivors include his brother Bill (Nonie), wife Tootie and children, Janet (Dave) Hauptman, Fritz, Laura (Dan) Boyce, Jeannie (George) Etchemendy, Audrey (Scott) Lackman, Thelma (Mike) Green, and Andy (Theresa) Zook, and his grandchildren, Blake (Kaci), Ben, and Ross Hauptman, Casey Boyce, Jessie (Damon) Heble, and Clay Boyce, Elisa (Erik) Olson, Pierre (Stacey) Etchemendy, Ty (Dani) Etchemendy, Todd and Joe Lackman, Kendall and T.J. Green, Sage and Ian Zook, as well as great-grandchildren, Oliver, Lawrence, and Charleslee, brothers-in-law Don (Cathy) Cameron, Chris (Delores) Cameron, and Kenny (Ginger) Cameron and many special nieces and nephews. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, sister Margaret, brother Johnnie, and grandson Zane Hauptman.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 26, 2018 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. A Rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. followed by a Vigil Service at 7:30 p.m. at the church.   Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Miles City.  Rite of Committal will follow in the Custer County Cemetery with full military honors.  Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting:  www.stevensonandsons.com.

Memorials in Tom’s honor may be made to The Holy Rosary Cancer Center, 2600 Wilson St, Miles City, MT 59301; Miles City Public Library, 1 S. 10th Street, Miles City, MT 59301 or to the Sacred Heart Elementary School, 519 N. Center Ave, Miles City, MT 59301.

Service Schedule

Visitation

5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Friday January 26, 2018

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

520 North Montana

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Rosary & Vigil

7:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Friday January 26, 2018

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

520 North Montana

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Mass of Christian Burial

2:00 p.m.

Saturday January 27, 2018

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

520 North Montana

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Graveside Service with Full Military Honors

Saturday January 27, 2018

Custer County Cemetery

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Service Schedule

Visitation

5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Friday January 26, 2018

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

520 North Montana

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Rosary & Vigil

7:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Friday January 26, 2018

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

520 North Montana

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Mass of Christian Burial

2:00 p.m.

Saturday January 27, 2018

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

520 North Montana

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Graveside Service with Full Military Honors

Saturday January 27, 2018

Custer County Cemetery

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

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Memories

Read the thoughts and memories, then feel free to add your own.

  1. Sorry to hear of your loss. Tommy will be missed by our family. Our thoughts are with you. Please let Tootie know we are thinking of her.

  2. So sorry for loss. Many people’s lives have been touched by this man. Cherish your memories and know that we are thinking of you all. God Bless.

  3. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you! We know you will miss him greatly. He has left behind a great legacy.
    God Bless.

  6. Our Prayers to the whole family for your loss. Tom and Tootie were gracious neighbors and the kind of people that inspired others to be better.
    Love to you all,
    Wayne and Shelley Perkins

  7. So sorry for your families loss. I remember Tom as being a real nice man. Cherish all of your memories.

  8. Condolences to all the Zook family, what a wonderful man who raised a wonderful family.

  9. Tootie and family, my deepest sympathy to all of you. You will be in my prayers during the coming days.

  10. Condolences to the Zook and Cameron families. So sorry to hear of Tom’s passing.

  12. Thoughts and prayers to all of Tom’s family! He will be missed by all who knew him! He and Tootie raised a wonderful family, that I knew from neighborhood gatherings, and 4-H. Deepest sympathy to you all at this time!

  16. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the Zook family. We are so sorry for the loss of Tom.

  17. Tootie and all Family,

    So sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. What a fine, gracious guy he was! Not family by blood, but it almost seems like it. Definitely an integral part of the old neighborhood country dance band. Also, he was a true statesman in his political career, something there aren’t many of these days. He will be missed. Fortunately, there is a very fine family to whom he imparted those qualities to carry on his legacy. Best wishes to all.

    Doug and Lucy Benge

  18. Thelma, Mike ,Kendall,TJ and family So very sorry for your loss, your dad and mom were always good to our 4H and FFA kids when we traveled to Helena to see the Capitol. Your dad was so polite, well spoken and a true gentleman and leaves behind a wonderful family and legacy. Our prayers go out to all of you during this difficult time. .Pat and Monte Herzog.

  20. Our thought and prayers are with you all,so sorry for your loss.May god bless you with his comfort.

  21. Tommy was a wonderful neighbor. My condolences to you. Thelma, hugs to you.
    Love, Patti

  22. So many memories of Tom and Tootie, always together, their love of their family, country and each other is something to marvel, and emulate. Please know we pray for all of his family and those who love him still. May time ease the aches in your hearts and his memory live on forever.
    Our Deepest Condolences,

    Aaron Mollie Robert and Michael Phipps

  23. Hey everyone this makes me sad. I really enjoyed Tom. We would visit all the time. Praying for you all god bless ya

  24. We were sorry to see the passing of Tom. I knew him professionally and personally for a lot of years. He was a fine man. A lot of Fall mornings I had coffee at his dinning room table talking when I don’t even drink coffee. One thing for certain he was very proud of his kids and their accomplishments. Our deepest sympathy to his whole family. God Bless all of you.

  26. Zook Family – Our deepest sympathies. Tom was such a wonderful gentleman. We would see Tom regularly at mass and he always treated us special. He regularly brought up the topic of wild turkeys and how the population was in his part of the county. He left everyone with the feeling they were important, which I believe he felt they were. God Bless you all.

  27. So sorry to hear about Toms passing . He was a wonderful person,and will be missed.

  29. I’m sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. I remember him playing football and baseball in 1949 & 1951. He was truly a perfect gentleman. I will pray for him and his family. I remember you too Bill, when we worked at Miles & Ulmers – remember?? God be each of you and keep you strong in your faith as God loves you all. With sincere sorrow for each of you.

  30. To each member of Tom’s family: We were deeply saddened to learn of Tom’s passing – Eastern Montana has lost another legend; however, Tom leaves his legacy in each of his children and grandchildren. Each of you have our prayers for God to grant you peace and comfort during your grief. Keep your memories close, as they will help ease your pain.

  32. Tom and I served in the legislature during the same years. He was a kind, caring, polite leader who would listen to all sides. He was a friend.

  33. Thoughts, prayers and condolences to the Zook family. I have many memories of Tom when we would go help my brother on his ranch, which was near the Zook ranch.

  35. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. He was a great talented man. He will be missed. Thoughts and prayers are with you. Bless your very large family.

  37. DEAR ZOOK FAMILY, OUR PRAYERS GO TO ALL OF YOU AT THIS TIME OF SORROW. HE WAS A GREAT GUY AND WILL BE MISSED. HAVE LOVED TOOTIE SINCE WE WERE IN HI SCHOOL WHAT A NEAT FAMILY.

  38. He was the “Zookster”. He was one of the finest men that I was fortunate to meet. Tootie my thoughts and prayers are with you.

  40. Tom Zook was one fine man and outstanding legislator. He was unfailingly courteous. Among my many memories of Tom is his truly elegant script, so unusual I thought for a fellow who made his living working the land. Another lasting impression were his cowboy boots moving swiftly through the halls of the Capitol. And, of course, his pipe being carefully emptied before stowing it away. His word was his bond; he was trusted absolutely by all, both sides of the aisle.

    I spent several days with Tom and Tootie on their place. He loved her and valued her opinions. I still tell people on occasion that if you were conflicted or confused, go spend an hour digging carrots with Tootie Zook; she would straighten you right out. He was enormously proud of his children and their educations.

    Godspeed, Tom Zook. The best Montana has to offer.

  41. I was so surprised to see the notice of Tom’s passing on the Stevenson’s website this morning. My deepest sympathies to the Zook Family. God Bless you all and comfort you at this time. Tom will forever be in our hearts and missed always.

  42. Thinking of and praying for all of you during this time.
    “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.”
    Hugs and prayers.

  43. Isabel, Thelma and all of Tom’s Family
    Our deepest sympathy and condolences for you and your family
    in this time of sorrow. As you share your memories, you will find that
    your loved one still lives in your hearts.

    Donna Riley and Kelly

  44. So very sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time.

  45. Tootie: May God grant you comfort in knowing that many others care and are praying for you and your family.
    From an old classmate

  46. Our sincere sympathy to all Tom’s family. We are sorry to hear of his passing. God’s Peace and Comfort be with all.

  48. Civilizations cannot exist without the people who give the foundation its strength, like Tom. His stability, loyalty, his work ethic, his ability to work with others, his civic service, devotion to his spouse, family and faith contribute to what also makes us all better people. Tom was not only a role model, but was a genuinely Good Man, and what praise can be better than that.

  49. My heart is hurting for all of the Zook family. Yet I know Tom wouldn’t have crossed over if he wasn’t ready. I love all of the Zooks I have met, the most kind and caring people ever. And have always cherished you all. Tom and Tootie did an amazing job of raising their children. The legacy lives on. I enjoyed every minute I spent with Tom. He was so wise and we had our battles of will for sure! Will always respect the family relationships between our families (Zooks and McRaes). Tom showed me a picture of Tootie and my gram once, and it made me feel so proud. So, sending loving thoughts of peace and comfort to all of you.

  50. Our thoughts are with you today as you lay to rest a loving father, grandfather and great grandfather. We have fond memories of Tom, Tootie and all the family on our two visits to Montana and the warm welcome we recieved from you all and especially today we think of Tootie who has lost a loving and caring husband.
    Donnie and Chrissie and the wider MacLennan family in Scotland.

  51. Zook Family: I am so sorry to hear of your loss. He touched so many people throughout his life. His legacy will carry on thru all of his family. Always remember “When A Loved One Becomes A Memory That Memory Becomes A Treasure”. Tom will always be a Treasure in your hearts and never forgotten. He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him. Treasure your memories as they will get you thru difficult days ahead. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

  52. Thinking of you all Tootie, Janet , Fritz,,Laura, Jennie,Audrey,Thelma and Andy. Growing up I remember your dad fondly . I remember his love for baseball .He always got everyone involved in a game at the school picnics. The old neighborhood will not be the same with out your dad . Losing parents is not easy , but hold on to all the good memories.
    Wanda Gresens

  53. We are so sad to hear of Tom’s passing and we’re thinking of the whole Zook family today. I’m glad we had the chance to meet Tom, Tootie and the whole family when we visited Montana in 2016. We will never forget the wonderful, warm welcome we received from you all. Our thoughts are with you,
    Susan, Terry, Ewan, Catriona and Tommy Lawson, Stirling, Scotland.

  54. My condolences to the family. My mother (Ella Frederick Johnsen) is sad she isn’t there to say her final goodbye, as she spends the winters here with me in Idaho. Mom remembers many fine times with the Zook family. As a grandchild of Russel and Sophie Frederick I remember visiting the Zook ranch. Again, so sorry.

  55. Tom was a good man; he passed his goodness on to his kids; Tootie was lucky have him in her life. Pat Hanlan

  56. we send our sympathy and condolences to Tootie and all the children and grandchildren, also to Bill and Nonie. My father, Eugene Wood, and Tom enjoyed many many music sessions together. Helen Jeanne and Walt Jones

  58. We would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the Zook family. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
    Jeff & Stephanie Youngmark
    Woodland, California

  59. Dear Zook family,
    We sympathise with you all on Tom’s passing.
    Irene and I remember well his and Tootie, her cousin’s, hospitality when we visited with them in 2006. Tom was generous in offering his horse to a real novice but it showed his wisdom as such a well trained animal kept me on his back and out of trouble amongst the fiesty Aberdeen Angus bulls! Tom’s black coffee consumption was impressive and kept him sharp throughout the day. A real gentleman as many have rightly said and one who will be sorely missed by all.
    It was a privilege and pleasure knowing him. (Edinburgh Scotland 2018)

  60. Tootie and Family…my how our hearts go out to you all, we are so sorry for your loss. What a wonderful man Tom was, always welcoming a visit, encouraging others and sharing his great smile. Please know you will all be in our thoughts and mostly prayers in the days to come, as we know some won’t be the easiest. What comfort you may have now knowing he is at peace in Heaven….probably having coffee with Mom : )

  61. Tootie and family,
    I am sadden to hear of your loss. Tom lives on in each of you and is very proud of each one of you.
    With all my love,
    Kirstie Auzqui

  62. Tootie and family,
    We are very sad to hear of Tom’s passing. He was an outstanding man; a person of integrity, a statesman and always a gentleman. It was an honor to work with Tom when he was on the school board and serving in the Legislature. It was also a privilege to spend time with his children when they attended CCDHS. They modeled the values learned from Tom and Tootie.
    Tom was a friend and a role model. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family in this time of sorrow.

  63. What an amazing man; I feel privileged to have met him and will cherish the memories. He left quite a legacy in each of his children. Fireflies forever Tom!

  64. I was shocked and saddened to hear of Tom’s passing. My most sincere deepest condolences to the Zook families.
    I always enjoying Tom. He was a kind, well-respected man. I felt it an honor to visit with him. He touched many people’s lives in trying to help wherever, whenever and however he could. His family and friends were blessed to have him in their lives. Tootie, having lost my own husband 2 1/2 years ago, and my father 20 years ago, I can well-understand the depth of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

  65. Zook Family:

    Our thoughts and prayers, condolences.

    I remember Tom at the Montana Legislature when I worked for the Realtor Association.

    Our family got to know Tom and family through community, ag, 4-H and FFA.

    As others have stated, Tom has left a great civic, community legacy.

    Clark Families:

    Darlene Clark, Miles City
    Lance Clark, Portland
    Brent Clark, Volborg
    Scott & Mary Clark, Billings
    Mike & Tammy Pecha, Powderville

  66. While surfing the internet, I was sorry to learn of the passing of Tom.

    In 1955, Tom and I shared a room for about a year while serving in Hawaii with Navy MATS Squadron VR-8.

    Tom was always a perfect gentleman, he enjoyed talking about family, especially his Father, going back to the ranch after discharge and Montana in general.

    His favorite pass time was play his “Git-Fiddle” guitar.

    He never spoke of his accomplishments in Sports which he apparently excelled in.

    My sincere condolences to his family on Tom’s passing.
    May he Rest in Peace – Goodbye Tom

    Russ Bechler
    Minneapolis, MN
    2020

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