Thomas Lee Litke, 90 of Abilene paThomas Lee Litke, 90, of Abilene, Kansas, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, July 16, 2026, surrounded by his beloved family.
Tom was born on November 20, 1935, in Alta Vista, Kansas, to Thomas Benjamin and Faye (Newcomb) Litke. He grew up in the Council Grove area and graduated from Council Grove High School in 1953. On June 26, 1958, he enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his country until receiving an honorable discharge on June 14, 1960.
On September 17, 1961, Tom married the love of his life, Diane Meierhoff, in Council Grove, Kansas. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and community.
Tom began his career with the State of Kansas as a Materials Technician before becoming Vice President of Walker Stone Company in Chapman. Even after retirement, he continued working for Zey’s for 19 years, where he enjoyed staying active and serving others.
An avid runner, Tom completed numerous marathons throughout his life, including his final marathon— the Eisenhower Marathon—at the remarkable age of 80. He was a devoted fan of Kansas State athletics, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the Kansas City Royals. He also spent 10 years coaching women’s softball in Abilene. He also enjoyed bowling and was in a bowling league for many years. He was an active member of the Abilene United Brethren Church and the Abilene Elks Club.
Above all else, Tom treasured his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose greatest joy came from spending time with those he loved. He enjoyed hunting with his sons, Scott and Mike; attending Kansas City Royals games with his daughter, Laura; running with his longtime friend, Jim; and making memories with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Some of his family’s most cherished memories include their annual Litke family vacations, spirited holiday domino games, and the many adventures Tom shared with Diane throughout their 64 years of marriage. His kindness, steady presence, and love for his family will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Tom is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Diane Litke, of the home; his children, Scott (Kathy) Litke, Laura (Curtis) Stroud, and Michael Litke; his grandchildren, Brandon (Teagan) Litke, Derek (Hannah) Litke, Jaden Litke (Riley Krueger), Brenna Stroud (Dom DeWolf), Amelia Litke, Kenneth Stroud (Betty Jo McNett), and Emily Litke; and his great-granddaughters, Ellie Litke and Madeline Litke. He is also survived by his sisters, Ruth Newcomb and Norma (Ken) Stringer; and his sister-in-law, Candy Boardman Litke.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Naomi (Kenneth) Moran and Vera (Leroy) Younggren; and his brother, Don (Lucille) Litke.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at the United Brethren Church in Abilene. Casual attire is encouraged. A luncheon will be served at the church following the service. A private family graveside service will take place at Sunny Slope Cemetery in Council Grove.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 21, at Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home in Abilene.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Dickinson County and may be left with or mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW Third Street, Abilene, KS 67410.