ELKHART — Thomas D. "Tom" Barber Jr., 54, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully at home with his family at his side following an extended illness at 12:22 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 29, 2017.

He was born, in Elkhart, April 2, 1963, to Thomas D. (Ann) Barber Sr. and Patricia (Zeigler) Barber, both of Elkhart.

He married Teresa L. Purvis on Jan. 5, 2005, in Elkhart. She survives at home after 15 wonderful years together.

Also surviving are his children, Mandi K. (Corey) Null of Granger, Cpl. Corey D. (Courtney) Barber, USMC veteran, and Zach T. Jones, both of Elkhart, K. Tyler (Halie Ritchie) Jones of Bloomington and Hailey L. Barber, at home; grandchildren Tairyn and Brooklin Null and Asher and Cadence Barber; and a sister, Krista Howell of Elkhart.

The members of the Cleveland Township Fire Department, along the New Hope United Methodist Church, 28765 C.R. 4, Elkhart, are honored to host Tom's memorial celebration of life services at 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, at the church, with visitation beginning at noon.

Pastor Tim Fisher of Crossroads Community Church, Elkhart is officiating, and Billings Funeral Home of Elkhart is assisting the family with cremation arrangements.

Tom was a warehouse manager at Marine Fasteners of Elkhart for almost 20 years until his early retirement due to his health.

He also served faithfully more than 20 years as a firefighter for the Cleveland Township Fire Department where he served as departmental secretary.

He was a member of the Indiana Volunteer Fireman's Association and Elkhart Moose Lodge No. 599.

Tom didn't know a stranger and would often lose himself in conversations with those whom he has just met.

He enjoyed going to estate sales and would always proudly show off his "finds".

He was a proud grandfather, great dad and a loving and devoted husband; never saying no to his grandchildren, helping his children whenever he could and enjoying making memories of a lifetime travelling the world with his "beautiful bride", Teresa.

His battle with cancer lasted four long years, but throughout Tom resolved to never waiver and ensured that his family's happiness and well-being always came first.

His cherished memory will always include the friendships that he made and the positive legacy that he left with his family.

In his own resounding words, Tom said "You can't hurt steel!"

Memorial donations may be given to his daughter Hailey's education fund, c/o Teresa.