Man down. I’m very sorry to report that Mr. Thomas Sternke left the building yesterday afternoon. One of my closest friends since childhood, I can vouch he was one of kind. Descriptive words will never do him justice, but ‘intelligent and witty irreverent bastard’ comes quickly to mind. He was a rogue rule breaker, adopter of ‘it’s better to ask for forgiveness than permission’, finder of light humor in the darkest of subjects, run-her-in-the-red till the end, and an Eagle Scout with questionable credentials and an infectious laugh. He was a thoughtful, caring, and understanding fellow that never shut up about being a dad and how proud he was of his son Henry In the end, a childhood heart problem put that train down a complicated track. Thomas was imperfectly perfect, and he pulled it off better than any. A huge character on some of my life’s craziest and best stories, he leaves a hole that will not soon be replaced. Love you buddy, Rest In Peace.
Thomas was born on January 8, 1983 in Mesa, Arizona and passed away in Phoenix, Arizona on March 5, 2021. He is survived by his eight-year-old son Henry, his mom Paula, his dad Steve, his sister Amy, his brother Ryan, uncles, aunts and cousins and countless friends across the United States whose lives have become intertwined with his. The family requests those who wish to express sympathy they may consider making a donation to Phoenix Children’s Hospital in Thomas Sternke’s name. A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, March 16, 2021 at 10:30 am at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 5045 E. Thomas Road, Phoenix. Burial will immediately follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 2033 N. 48th Street, Phoenix. Condolences and Hugs from Home can be left at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home website.
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Rafael Aguirremicht
Can’t be mad at God for calling you home early Thomas, and I don’t blame God for doing so because you were one of a kind.
May your soul Rest In Peace.
My heart goes to you Paula, Steve, family and friends.
Andrew McClintock
Tom was a great friend. It was more than just doing fantasy baseball podcasts and hangouts with him, whenever I had a problem no matter how big or small he would always take the time to listen, and that really helped me through some rough spots.
My condolences to his family and friends.
Mrs. D
While we never met in person, I enjoyed our many conversations online, talking fantasy baseball, life, and everything in between. You’re wicked sense of humor, enthusiasm and kindness will be missed and remembered. May your memory continue to make those who knew and loved you laugh and smile.
susan silverman
Amy, Paula & Steve,
I’m so sorry! I do remember “tales of Thomas at the studio”…….
Sending love,
Susie Silverman
Laurie Bakemeier
Paula and Amy…Cliff and I and family are sending our love hugs and prayers during this time of loss.
We remember him and all of you as great.
GOD HAS YOU ALL✝️✝️✝️
Whitney Fitzpatrick
I’m so sorry to read about Thomas passing. I remember his dry humor and sharp wit, and of course, his kindness. My heart goes out to the Sternke family: Steve, Ryan, Amy, and mom, Paula. I pray the universe surrounds him, you, and his son Henry, with infinite love. Please accept my condolences for your great loss.
Evan and Nadine Davies
May fond memories of Thomas bring you comfort during this hard time in your life. Our hearts go out to you and your family.
Tris
A Weird Uncle tips his hat.
Lesley
Met Thomas in front of Mrs. DeLarco’s kindergarten class at St. Theresa Catholic School when he was 5 (1988?). That was the beginning of a lifelong friendship with Mom Paula, Dad Steve, Sister Amy and Thomas himself. Thomas shared a special bond with my daughter, Katie. We loved him and all the Sternkes like family. Requiescat in pace – we wish you eternal rest and peace.
Jennifer Taylor
Thomas I will love and miss you for the rest of my life. I am so grateful for the time we had together however it was not long enough. Forever wouldn’t have been long enough to spend with you and love and be loved by you. We had an instant connection and bond that was stronger than either of us had ever had before. You saw the best and worst parts of me as I saw in you as well, yet we were able to build such a strong and amazing love that will see me through until I can be with you once more. I will love and miss you forever my precious Thomas. Love always you Jenn Baby