Tom was an intensely loyal person. His words and his actions were always true to his committment to others. Whether it was his boys or his Huskers or his team at work, Tom was fiercely loyal to those he cared about most. Tom was also always interested in the lives of those around him. There wasn't a time where Tom didn't ask how my family was doing. He always started a discussion with, "How's your family/wife/kids doing..." and then "What can I do for you?" I appreciate that Tom took the time to make a personal connection before getting to business - to humanize every transaction...it's a great reminder that we are people first, customers second...that there's always a person on the other end of business. Tom will be greatly missed.

I will surely miss the happiness and warmth Tom provided to EVERYONE, on a daily basis. He knew your name and made you feel as if he knew you and vise versa in even the shortest of encouters. We need more people like him to make the days more alive and cheerful. I am saddened by this news, he was taken way too young and unexpected.

It is quite apparent from these postings, that Tom was a very special and kind person. He had a genuine sincerity and caring about him, that immediately put a person at ease. Whenever, I would visit the 4th floor on business, Tom would always invite me into his office and ask how I was doing and we would talk Husker Football. He was always friendly and I looked forward to our conversations. Tom will be greatly missed by all of us, but beyond that his special qualities will always be remembered. Please extend my deepest sympathy to his family.

I had the priviledge of getting to know Tom much better after moving to the 4th floor. Whenever I'd wander over to finance to ask a question, he'd come out of his office and ask me if he could help. He always made you feel like you were the only person he had to help that day! In one of our very first encounters, we discovered a similar love of college football - he for the Huskers and me for the Georgia Bulldogs. Tom never failed to follow up with me on Monday mornings to discuss the highlights of the weekend. His smile was contagious. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Tom was such a great guy! He was always upbeat and friendly. He was one of those people that could brighten your day. I saw him mostly, in passing, but almost always walked away with a smile or a chuckle. He was always so approachable and could always be counted on to help resolve a problem. I often relied on Tom for help with financial questions or problems I had. People like Tom are rare, and he will be missed by many.

I haven't even start writing, I am already feeling sad to continue writing. Last 41/2 years in Finance, he always made me feel very special working in Finance. With his humor, I was able to feel very comfortable to joke with him and laugh a lot. Especially last few months, there hasn't a day gone by without he made me laugh so hard or I made him laugh hard. We didn't have to try hard to make each other laugh. It was pretty easy things to do lately. Even he was very sincere with his work, he took time to make me feel special, comfortable and made me laugh. I wouldn't be where I am in Finance now without his help and his concern. I will miss him being funny and care for people in Finance.

I first met Tom several years ago when we served on the same AASCIF Committee. He was so easy to talk to and we became friends right away. We did give each other a lot of grief, kind of like siblings. I always looked forward to our Committee workshops and conference calls so we could catch up on each other's lives. We both have children about the same age, so we were always "comparing notes". I am going to miss seeing his smiling face.

The first time I met Tom was in preparation for delivering dividend checks to our policyholders. I was relatively new at Pinnacol and had no idea who Tom was. When we went to the first meeting, I was pretty nervous about the whole process. All it took was for us to find out we were both single parents. We become instant friends. He had a great sense of humor and made it feel like we had been friends for years. Once we got back from delivering checks, we did our testimonial video. He looked over and said, "Hey Lena, it was great getting to know you, stop by when you're on the 4th floor and say Hi". And every time we saw each other in passing, he would always ask, "Hey Lena, how are you, so what's new?" And he always asked about my daughter too. He was so compassionate, sincere, and full of life. He will truly be missed.

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Tom's passing. I worked with Tom occasionally on legal issues. He never wanted to communicate by phone or email. Instead, he wanted to meet. I think that's because he wanted a more personal contact. He was truly interested to hear what was going on in my life. We'd sit in his office and talk about the business at hand, then he'd invariably ask how my daughter was doing. We'd also discuss our mutual passion, college football. Although I'm a Buff and Tom was a Husker, we had fun talking about our "rivalry". I never met a more optimistic Husker fan. Regardless of who Nebraska was playing, he'd say, with that sly smile, "we're gonna whoop 'em." I never really knew whether he was serious. I talked to Tom briefly in passing last Friday morning. He asked me who Colorado was playing and I told him "Missouri". He said "I hope you whoop 'em". I couldn't talk for long, because I was late for a meeting. I wish I would have talked a bit longer that morning with Tom. Goodbye Friend, I'll think of you whenever the Huskers win.

Tom reminded me of one of my High school teachers, maybe because of his tone and I was normally in a learning mode asking why this was charged to this account or how do I fix this for Brandon? He was also a friend that always ended our conversations on my kids. My prayers are with your family.

When I met Tom for the first time he was very nice and friendly, but what impressed me the most was from that moment on he remembered my name and always made it a point to address me by my name and then ask how I was doing etc. I will always remember that smile and positive attitude he had each and every time I saw him. He will be greatly missed.

Every time I would pass by Tom’s office he always made a point to wave and say hi. He was always very friendly and such a nice person. On occasion, he would call me into his office just to see how things are going or to talk about a current event. I could tell his staff respected him and enjoyed working for him. I am really going to miss him.

Tom sat with me at Starbucks just last week and asked me how I was and introduced me to two of his co-workersl we chatted for awhile. It is so hard to believe he is gone, but also amazing after reading the other memories, how many employees he has touched. I meet Tom 8 years ago while playing on Pinnacol's softball league and he has always shared a smile or a how are you. He will be missed.

I don't know if I'll ever be able to go up to the 4th floor again and not expect to have Tom waive me in his office for our little "chats" once a month or so. I'm still in shock at his untimely passing and expect I will be for quite some time. I will miss our genuine and candid talks about single parenting, work, the world, our lives, Nebraska and a whole host of other topics. He always made me laugh (and sometimes blush!) with his off the cuff humor and analysis of life and raising children. I won't ever forget some of the advice he gave me in raising a son. He had a gentle and sincere heart...one of the "nice guys" absolutely. We'll miss you Tom...Rest in Peace.

I have known Tom over the past 8 years and feel like I am a better man because of him. Tom even helped me get a job at Pinnacol as an Internal Auditor. We always had a good time together and laughed about everything. I will always remember going to lunch with him, playing football on Fridays at the old building and taking about Husker football. If we weren't together watching the Huskers, we would be calling each other during the games to provide our individual "expert" analysis. When I became a father in 2002, Tom and Jim Sumner were the first visitors at the hospital. They brought bubble gum cigars for me and seemed as excited as I was. Tom told me on that day how my son will always need a father and I must always be there for my son. He was right and I am greatful for all of his advice over that past 8 years. If I was ever down Tom would always bring me up. Tom was a great friend and father. I will miss him very much. Go Big Red!

Tom made it his mission to educate employees on what Finance was all about. After every sentence he would say, "we are here to help you." I truly believe he meant that. He was always smiling and never walked by without saying Hello and How is your day? He will be sorely missed.

I have not been at Pinnacol for a few years now, but I still think about Tom! I remember seeing him in the kitchen getting coffee or in the elevator! He would always make jokes, just to see people smile! He knew I was raising my boys on my own for awhile and always asked how they were as well as how I was doing. He was such a great guy! I have and always will remember Tom!!

Problems were never problems for Tom or at least he didn't make it seem like a problem. Tom would always greet me with a smile and straight tone Shannon...Hi how are you today? Followed with how is your son is he still playing hockey? He remembered every conversation no matter how big or little it was. Everytime I had to go to finance he would step out of his office to ask if he could help me with anything or to chat for a minute. We've shared alot of laughs throughout the years and I will miss him dearly it won't be the same when I go to finance. You friend Shannon

I got to know Tom quite well as I was lucky enough to have him sit right down the hall from me and he frequently passed my office throughout the day as he was coming or going. He always whisked by with a quick and fun "Hi Jennie" and very often stopped in to tell stories and make fun of me. His favorite thing to do was ask me to join the finance team due to my undeniable math skills! :) During one of our conversation he mentioned that he had gone to see the Notebook (movie) one night on one of his "dates" (another thing we teased about). Poor Tom, that was just enough for me to hear and I never let up on the fact that he saw the Notebook (and actually like it! :). I even introduced him to my husband at one of the holiday parties as "Hi, this is Tom, he went to see the Notebook". :) Of course Tom looked at me with that funny smile on his face that is a signature Tom look! My other favorite memory of Tom was when he as on a trip to Vegas for AASCIF, which he teased me about endlessly when he got to go and I had to stay back here and work. I was home, about 8 pm, and I my cell rings with Tom's name coming up on this display. I answer, curious as to why he is calling me from Vegas, and he says "Jennie?, where are you?" and I'm like "home, what are you doing" which was enough for him to realize that he had called the wrong Jennie. He was looking for someone he was in Vegas with and NEVER got over the embarassment of that phone call to me. Very "Tom-ism" !!! Tom, you will be forever missed and in my thoughts and I will always remember you for your quirky and fun style and your undeniablly kind heart!!!! Like we joked about when I delivered GD checks, "At Ease Solider". In my prayers and thoughts always! Jennie

I will always remember Tom for the amazing level of customer service he provides everyday to his colleagues. No matter which department you worked I know those who interacted with Tom received his undivided attention and assistance in solving problems. I remember thinking after leaving his office that day for an accountant, he is one cool dude. In fact, everybody in Finance are really cool and service-oriented; inspired and led by a leader who practised this everday. I have been in brown bag meetings with Tom and I always felt his customer focus coming through loud and clear. I will always remember; I will never forget Tom.

Tom was always a straight shooter. He didn't mess around but took your issue seriously and gave it all it's due attention. I never had a sense he had any other problems, though I know he must, other than attending to my issue. He had a way of making you feel like you were his only customer. Gina Greckel's story summed up my experience also. If I needed help with something, he acted on it now and as I stood before him. There was no, "I'll get to it". He dropped everything to take action now. It made me feel important. Thank you Tom for all you did here at Pinnacol. I will miss you.

It seems that when a person to whom I was close or had a great amount of respect for passes on, I am deeply struck by what that person taught me about how to truly live my life every day. Tom always had a kind and friendly word to say, and made me feel respected and valued. My impression is that he really had things in balance – he enjoyed life and worked hard with diligence and integrity, and without fail he made his children his number one priority. Tom, you will be missed very, very much, and I feel blessed to have known you. You are leaving a legacy you can be very proud of, and it will never be forgotten by your Pinnacol family.

I got to know Tom when he would make trips to our team to discuss structured settlement issues with my claims' reps. He would come down to talk about issues in person instead of just leaving a voice mail or sending an e-mail. He was a very genuine/ real person. Tom took the time to get to know people. Tom was a true asset to our company and a wonderful friend to all! Thank you Tom! You will be missed! Jennifer Berguson, RN (BLN)

My fondest memory of Tom is from the softball field. Tom was an enthusiastic competitor and always tried his best but he still made time for fun. Thinking of his reference to my cleats as ‘my dawgs’ brings a smile to my face. I will miss a friendly chat in the coffee kitchen, some humor on the softball field, and a friend.

What I remember most about Tom is his genuine smile. I don't remember a time that I saw him without a smile, which also brought a smile to my face too. Another thing I remember about Tom is how he would go out of his way to always help anyone, no matter what the reason. His bright smile and caring heart will be missed.

I didn't know Tom very well but everytime I saw him, he was in a great mood, no matter the time of the day! He always said hi in the mornings and sometimes even had some jokes for the elevator ride. I am very sad by his early departure; he will be missed dearly.

Several years ago we played football at a park with a bunch of the employees at Pinnacol on Fridays. After the games Tom and I would talk about some of the great plays and how we were going to rough each other up during the game. We would “trash talk” every time we would see each other on Friday and later laugh about how sore we were as we would limp on home. I enjoyed every conversation with Tom because he taught me a great deal about raising my boys. I will miss our conversations and laughter but will never forget my good friend.

I have been very fortunate to get to know Tom over the last 8 years. I always enjoyed talking with Tom, whether about football, golf or business. He always seemed to be happy to see me, and would offer a warm greeting. I will truly miss Tom and only wish I could have got to know him better. My deepest sympathy to all his family and friends.

Tom was a very good friend to me as well as a mentor. I would go up to drop invoices off for payment, then he would call me in his office. Tom would tell me to close the door and we would talk about family, work then he would ask how I was doing. Tom always had something funny to tell me, always. I am going to miss our talks.

Tom has always been respectful and humorous. I will always remember him as a person just that....

Although our paths didn't cross all that much during the day, I always started my day walking in with Tom. We always seemed to arrive at work at the same time and he was always smiling and cheerful, even though it was the beginning of the work day. He was a true gentle man and gentleman. When there was a problem or question that I directed to him, he quickly and pleasantly responded. I will miss my walks into work! Thank you Tom. You will be missed!

I have lots of fond memories of Tom. We golfed quite a bit together because he said that we always had a lot of laughs while we played. That's probably because we are both horrible golfers and could laugh at each other's horrible shots without hurting each others feelings. We played together about 3 weeks ago with Rob Erickson. I laughed until my stomach hurt that day. We always used that time in the golf cart to pick on each other about our favorite college football teams (his being Nebraska and mine being CU), or his affinity for the Detroit Red Wings and mine for the Colorado Avalanche. One time he caught me sticking pins in his Nebraska doll in his office - but he was so good natured about it, he let the pins stay in there for a few days before we took them out. He was always quick to ask me about my kids and about how I was doing. And he really wanted to know...it wasn't just small talk. I'll miss him tremendously.

Other then being the proudest Dad in the world, Tom was a Husker fan! Every week he’d have the highlights from the weekend’s game just in case I didn’t catch the game, and we’d talk about how any day now they’d get a new coach and the Husker would become that team who bet CU to many times to count, once again! I’ll miss his “Jo I ran 4 miles this morning… What did you run?” As that was always his way of saying good morning! Big RED, you’ll truly be missed.

Monica Calenda

15 years ago

I didn't know Tom very well but everytime I saw him, he was in a great mood, no matter the time of the day! He always said hi in the mornings and sometimes even had some jokes for the elevator ride. I am very sad by his early departure; he will be missed dearly.

Tom was a very friendly and outgoing person. I started a wonderful friendship with him when I was working in customer service several years ago. I approached him many times to discuss questions regarding the finanical end of claims. He always welcomed me in his office and always said good morning or hello when I saw him. We all will miss him very much.

Tom was always bright and cheery! He was so helpful, and never said , No! He really loved his sons and was always telling me what they were up to. He was so friendly and kind and I will miss him.

Tom was such an amazing and positive person! Everytime I saw him in the hallway he would say "Hi Gena, How's the kids?" It made me smile everytime. I am going to miss having the oppurtunity to talk to him. He was always so helpful and on top of it. If you had a problem he made it a priority to fix, no matter how busy he was. Tom will be missed by many people and left a wonderful legacy here at Pinnacol.

Tom was such a happy guy! He was always eager to help out and really never said, No! He really loved his sons, and would tell me how they were doing. He was such a friendly guy and I will miss him.

I would see Tom every morning on his way to Starbucks. He would tell me good morning every time before I even formally met him. Then we volunteered together and he cracked me up. He was the coolist, relaxed person ever. I am going to miss seeing him every morning.

Tom always had time to talk. If he had a moment, he would give it to you. If he did not have a moment, he would give it to you anyway. Tom, you will be missed ...

When I first met Tom he was an internal auditor and I was a policy specialist. He was auditing the new other states coverage program and had found some major issues. He sent me his recommendations for review and comment before he submitted them to managment and stressed that if there was anything I wanted him to delete he would, because he didn't want me to be "upset." My response was problems are problems and we need to know about them even if we can't solve them right away. "Well, if you're sure..." Tom was always unfailingly polite and solicitous of others' feelings, with an incisive mind and a wit to match. I will miss him.

When ever you ran into Tom he always said Hello and had a smile on his face. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at the time of their loss.

I did not get the chance to know Tom personally however my impressions of him was a man who never seemed to have a bad day. He always seemed to be enjoying the day, the conversation he was having, the walk over to get coffee. He would always say hello to me even though I don’t think he knew me. I would have loved the chance to talk football with him especially about our Huskers. Go Big Red!

What I really appreciated about Tom was when he had a concern with a process or personnel, he never avoided these conversations. He would tell me exactly how he felt about any situation. Then he would turn around and indicate his belief that we could work through these concerns. I personally never saw him negative even in stressful situations. I also really enjoyed sparing with Tom about Nebraska football as I am a CU graduate. He always gave and took ribbing with grace and style.

Tom always took time out to give me hand when I needed it. If I had business questions, he always took time out to answer them and I never felt like I was being rushed out the door. Not only that, Tom made time to help me with my homework for Accounting class when I was working on my master's degree. Considering accounting is more gray than I thought it would be, I struggled with it, but Tom made it easy. I also appreciated the fact that Tom always ask how I was doing, and if I was still running whenever he saw me in the hallway or meetings.

Tom always went out of his way to let me know how much he appreciated the work we did for him. He asked about my son and told me I needed to have another. He was serious about his work but laughed more than anyone. I'll miss him.

The first time I met Tom we started talking about health, fitness, food, etc. We both discovered that we loved to drink 'Sport Tea', but the ginseng gave us both a buzz! The thing I'll remember most is that everytime we met, he had wonderful, positive things to say about IS staff, and he always made me laugh so hard. He had an interesting and powerful sense of humor, and a really nice, easy manner. We shared updates on his boys and my dogs, and how crazy busy we always were. I will miss him a great deal, and I know that everyone at Pinnacol will miss him too.

Today the fourth floor office of our friend and colleague Tom Struyk was dark. Knowing that it will remain so is a reality I am still grappling with. Tom was a combination of good humor, quick wit, and enormous passion for life. All those attributes made him the most memorable of friends. I will miss the daily greeting I got from Tom as he passed by my office headed to Starbucks for his morning caffeine. I will miss the big smile and friendly wave that were part of his ritual as I passed his office. I will miss the way he patiently explained the answers to my many questions about Pinnacol’s finances. Tom had a big heart and was always quick to compliment for others for a job well done. His untimely and unexpected passing leaves me longing for one last chance to tell him how much his friendship meant to me. I’m sure as I write this, Tom is lacing up his running shoes and jogging through heaven, and I hope he knows we all miss him deeply and are grateful to have called him friend.

Every time I saw Tom, usually at Starbucks, Tom would say, "Well, Hello Dear"! Then he always would make it a point to pay a nice compliment or be genuinely nice. He would say, "You look nice today" or "It is so good to see you"! He always had a smile. One time, he asked me if I had received the report I needed. I told him it was almost right. Right there, in Starbucks he called the office for the report. By the time I walked back, there was the report in my email, exactly as I requested. He then followed up to make sure it was just right. Tom had a way a making those around him feel important and cared for. He has left an indelible mark at Pinnacol with many of us. I have learned from Tom that how you say something can make all the difference.

Tom was always a straight shooter, good or bad. Because of that, I have always had a tremendous amount of respect for him. People always say they want others to be 100% honest. However, when they hear the honesty, it's not always good. Tom is a man who was always 100% honest with great integrity. I always appreciated that. Tom's legacy at Pinnacol is one he can be happy with and proud of. I will miss you Tom.