Tom was inducted into the Army on May 25, 1975. He trained at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, as a Wheel Mechanic. SP4 Opperman served three years in Germany with the 3rd Infantry 10th Combat Engineer Battalion and was discharged in June of 1978.

There will only be a private service held at this time and a Celebration of Life will be determined later.

Tom was born on June 29, 1956, in Sioux City, Iowa to George and May (Thomas) Opperman.

He served proudly in the Army for 4 years as a mechanic. After being released from his duties in the army, he continued his great patriotism throughout his life. Tom went to DMACC to become a certified mechanic. He worked as an auto mechanic for many years and was a beloved bus driver for the West Des Moines School District until his retirement.

Tom was married to Rose Marie Thomas on August 17, 1995, in which they had many adventures together. He loved to camp, fish, and always had a story to tell.

Preceding him in death his father George, his son Brian, and his triplet brothers Dave, Doug, and Don.

To keep his memory alive are his loving wife Rose, his daughters Madison, Melissa, & Katie. Also, his stepchildren (but he never liked the word "step") Brian, Michael, and Jay. Tom loved being a grandpa to all his grandbabies. His mother May, his sister Mary, and his brother Mike. He also had numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family that will also keep his spirit alive.

He will truly be missed by numerous family members and friends. He was definitely loved by so many.