Thomas Ray Outka, 64, Sturgis, passed away on Easter Sunday, March 27, 2016, surrounded by his loving family.

Tom was born October 30, 1951, to LeRoy and Evelyn (Harris) Outka in Rapid City, SD, a brother to LaVon, Lois, and Randall. Tom graduated from New Underwood High School in 1971 where he lettered and played football and ran track. Tom grew up farming and ranching next to his dad in Enning, SD. Tom later worked at Homestake Gold Mine for 18 years, then at Rockingtree where he did landscaping. Tom's last place of employment was with Horsley Specialties where he was a foreman for asbestos removal.

For everyone who knew Tom, knew he liked to tinker in the garage, around the house, and on vehicles. Tom loved being outdoors hunting and fishing, and he always had a story about "the one that got away." Tom was a talker and his stories were never shortbut his fish were sure long.

Tom was always willing to lend a helping hand and if you needed to borrow anything, it was guaranteed that it had his name written on it with a big black marker. Tom was famous for phrases such as "ever what," "Git-r-done," and "The deal of it is."

Tom was married to Mary Lou Simmons and from this marriage, they had two wonderful daughters, April and Lisa. Tom later married Teddy (Finn) Varns on November 28, 1986. The two together became T-N-T. Tom and Teddy became best friends and soul mates. With this marriage, Tom became a loving and caring father to Sheila, Jesse, and Shannon. Tom was also a proud papa to twelve amazing grandchildren that love him dearly.

Tom is survived by his wife, Teddy Outka, Sturgis, SD; son, Jesse (Layla) Varns, Rapid City; daughters, April Keller, Cedar Rapids, IA, Lisa (Reid) Outka-Perkins, Missoula, MT, Sheila Varns (Travis) Huck, Sturgis, and Shannon Varns Royer, Sturgis; grandchildren, Timothy and Madison Walker, Zac and Shelby Keller, Tevin and Reese Huck, Dylan, Coby and Samantha Varns, and Brody and Logan Royer; sisters, LaVon Williams, Bonners Ferry, ID, and Lois Davis, Rapid City; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Randall Outka; and one granddaughter, MacKenna Varns.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, March 31, 2016, at Kinkade Funeral Chapel with Pastor Steve Talley officiating.

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