Thomas Edward Petitgout

Thomas Edward Petitgout of Tipton, Iowa, entered into eternity on March 24, 2026. Tom was the son of Edward and Dorothy (Baumhover) Petitgout and was born on October 9, 1944, in Dubuque, Iowa. He graduated with the class of 1963 from Tipton High School.

Tom was united in marriage to Beverly Ann Wilkinson on June 12, 1965, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Tipton, Iowa. She was the only woman he ever loved and the one with whom he spent his life. Together, they had two wonderful daughters, Michelle and Ann. In Tom’s words, “Now with different last names, but both still Petitgouts.”

Tom began working at Bud’s Super Value at the age of 14, often saying it was the best college education anyone could receive. At 22, he started his career at Leabart & Fields. Soon after, he was called to serve in the National Guard, where he worked as a supply clerk for six years. After 24 years working for Mr. Keith Fields at Fields Mens-Wear, Tom purchased the store in 1990. He truly loved his customers and always did his very best to take care of them. They knew they could count on exceptional service, as Tom had the remarkable ability to know a person’s size simply by watching them walk through the door. He worked tirelessly for many years, retiring in 2010 at the age of 66.

Tom enjoyed pheasant hunting and had many great hunting dogs over the years, all of which he loved and cared for deeply. He also enjoyed listening to music, dancing, and spending time with friends and family. For many years, you could find Tom and Bev on the dance floor wherever they went. Together, they hosted many Buddy Holly dances at the Moose. Later in life, he could be found on the golf course or playing cards with good friends.

Tom is survived by his wife of 60 years, Beverly; his two daughters, Michelle (Rodney) Barton of Tipton and Ann (Jamie) Meyer of Tipton; and his four grandchildren, Kailee Meyer of Newton, Kole Meyer of Parkersburg, Sydney Barton of Cedar Falls, and Jacob Barton of Tipton. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Fry Funeral Home in Tipton. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Tipton. Immediately following the Mass, a luncheon will be held in Tom’s honor at St. Mary’s Parish Hall. Per Tom’s wishes, cremation will take place following services, and inurnment will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be directed to St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Tipton.

Online condolences may be shared at www.fryfuneralhome.com.