Thomas G. Minnicus, 54, of the Mellott community in Fountain County, left this world behind on Sunday evening, October 18, 2015. Tom died unexpectedly, despite the valiant efforts of his son and friends to save him after he suffered a massive heart attack. Our hearts are broken at the thought of life without Tom, but we are comforted by the knowledge that his last day was spent doing what he loved. Few people in this world find as much enjoyment as Tom did in the simple things of daily life, like working in his barn, cooking good food and sharing a joke with his friends.

Tom leaves behind one son, Blake A. Minnicus (Jayci) of whom he was so proud. Tom was not the type of man to brag about anything, but everyone knows how much he thought of Blake and the hard-working young man he has become. He leaves big shoes for Blake to fill, but we know he is up to the task. Tom also leaves behind his fiancé, Tracey Slaven of Lafayette and her daughters, Molly and Gracie. Tom's mother, Teresa Minnicus of Delphi survives as do his six siblings; Ann Minnicus, Steve Minnicus Gordon Minnicus (Kim), Jerry Minnicus (Peg), all of Delphi, Mike Minnicus (Tara) of Lapel, Tim Minnicus (Linda) of Sheridan, seven nieces and nephews and two great-nephews. Tom was predeceased by his father, Charles Minnicus, a brother, Joseph Minnicus and his nephew, Alan Minnicus.

Tom's Fountain county friends held a special place in his heart, and he was especially close to Charlie Willis, Bob Bass and Mike McCormick. He loved the crowd at Chubbies and all of the good times he had there. The crew at The Appletree made Tom's mornings brighter with their coffee conversations.

Tom served with the Indiana State Police for 30 years, being appointed to the department, November of 1985 and assigned to the Lafayette Post. Tom was permanently promoted to Detective in April 1999 where he has served meritoriously. He has received over 20 commendations through his career with the Indiana State Police for service that was considered above and beyond. Tom served on the ISP Tactical Intervention Platoon and the ISP Clandestine Lab Team. Although he investigated crimes in all areas of the Lafayette District and State of Indiana, he primarily serviced the Fountain and Montgomery County area. His state police brothers made a difficult job a positive part of Tom's life. Before joining the state police, Tom farmed in rural Delphi and never got over his love of tractors and big equipment. He was formerly married to Blake's mother, Sherri Minnicus of Boswell and maintained a close friendship after their divorce.

Tom left us with such wonderful memories. We will try to live up to his example of loving, helping, and contentment.

Visitation for Tom will be Friday, October 23, 2015 from 3:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Family & Friends Funeral Home of Wingate (9700 North State Road 55, Wingate). Funeral Mass of Christian Burial with Rev. Ambrose Zielger will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 24, 2015 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 407 South Perry, Attica. Interment will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery, Wingate, with Honors provided by the Indiana State Police Honor Guard. Memorials may be directed to the . To leave a condolence or share a memory, visit us at www.familyandfriendsfh.com