Tom Cerney | 1951 - 2025
Obituaries-Pierre / Posted Jul 30, 2025 | 4:34 PM / 767 views
PIERRE, SD – Thomas Raymond Cerney, known affectionately as Tom to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025, at the age of 74, in Pierre, South Dakota. He was born on February 15, 1951, in Pickstown, SD.
A visitation will be held Wednesday, July 9, 2025 from 10:00am-11:00am with Celebration of life at 11:00am at New Life Church in Pierre.
Tom’s early years were spent in his hometown of Geddes, where he graduated from high school in 1969, showcasing an early passion for the culinary arts. This passion led him to pursue and complete his education at Culinary School, where he honed his skills.
In 1971 Tom entered the United States Army, served his country with honor through his discharge in 1977.
In 1976, while working at Taco John’s, Tom met Mary, and they married in 1977. Together, they embarked on a journey of love and mutual support that lasted 24 years. Their marriage was blessed with two wonderful children, Amanda and Adam, who were the pride and joy of Tom’s life.
An avid outdoorsman, Tom found solace and excitement in the beauty of nature. He was renowned for his hunting skills, particularly when it came to pheasants and deer, and he also cherished the tranquil moments spent fishing throughout his life. These activities not only provided him with a sense of peace and accomplishment but also allowed him to create lasting memories with friends and family.
Tom’s love for reading was insatiable; he believed in learning something new every day. His intellectual curiosity and eagerness to expand his knowledge were traits that inspired those around him. He was a man of many interests, but above all, he valued the time spent with his loved ones.
Tom is survived by his devoted children, Amanda (Josh) Fouts and Adam Cerney, his cherished grandchildren, Elijah and Charles, and his loving sisters, Mary Beth Kok and Paula Renner. He will also be fondly remembered by his sister-in-law, Carol Cerney. Tom was preceded in passing by his parents, Raymond and Mary, and his brother, Richard Cerney.
