Thomas "Tom" Shackleton

DE SOTO - Thomas “Tom” Shackleton, 83, passed away on Monday, October 9, 2023 at Shawnee Senior Living in Herrin.

Tom was born on September 17, 1940 in Carbondale to W. Maximilan and Mildred (Goforth) Shackleton. Tom married Gale Shackleton on April 28, 1973 in Carbondale.

Tom worked as the Airport Superintendent at the Southern Illinois Airport until his retirement after 30 years of service. Tom enjoyed working on automobiles, watching racing with his children, and “pestering” his grandchildren. Tom was a proud member of the Village of DeSoto Board. Tom served as the Chief of the DeSoto and Southern Illinois Airport fire departments, and also served as the President of the Coal Belt Fire Fighters Association. Tom and Gale were also named “Senior Citizens of the year” in 2014.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Gale Shackleton; sons, Mike (Kathy) and Matt (Meghan) Shackleton; grandchildren, Stephan (Malerie) Shackleton, Teal (Michael) Felton, Austin Drury, Bridget, Ainsley, Max, and Ben Shackleton; great-grandchildren, Atlas and Indie Shackleton, and Ollie Felton.

He was preceded in death by his parents, W. Maximilian and Mildred Shackleton.

Graveside Services for Tom will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at DeSoto Township Cemetery, with Pastor Scott Foster officiating.

Memorials may be made in Tom’s name to Autism Society of Southern Illinois.

Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale assisted the family with arrangements. To leave a story or memory of to visit www.meredithfh.com.