Tom taught history and physical education and coached for 33 years at Grinnell and Griswold Comm. Schools. He followed that career with 8 years as Assistant Manager at Southwest Iowa Egg Cooperative.

Tom and his wife, Jewell, have been married for 31 years and have 3 children, Kaitlan, Thomas, and Lauren.

Tom is a member of the Iowa High School Athletic Association Officials Hall of Fame with 38 years of wrestling officiating, including 25 years in the state tournament. He has also worked girls softball for 25 years, including 9 years in the state tournament.