Thomas Eugene Harpring, 74, of Temple died January 30, 2013 at his residence. Born in Paris, IL, on September 19, 1938, he was a man of great experience, knowledge, talents, words, and positive outlook on life. Joining the United States Navy at 16, he traveled the globe; open to all that he encountered, one of the most stubborn yet non-judgmental individuals to walk this earth. He worked for Delta Air Lines in Simulator Maintenance for 27 years before retiring.

A beloved father and grandpa, he taught us the value of hard work, the spirit of giving, and about the kind of person we should aspire to be. He guided us with his open heart, and embraced all that he came in contact with. Such a giving soul, we have all gained so much from his wealth of knowledge as well as his story telling and life lessons while sitting around at family dinners. We were taught to use "balderdash" when we were frustrated and how to "piddle" when we needed something to do. We will truly miss his deep voice and presence in the room. He lived life with no regrets and always said, we "shouldn''t go should-en on ourselves" and we all have the power to choose how we view that which we experience.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Richard Harpring, Robert Harpring, Joan Harpring, Betty Harpring.

He is survived by his daughter Jo Harpring, of Decatur, his loving ex-wife Sarah Harpring of Decatur, 4 step-sons, 10 grandchildren, 2 sisters, and 2 brothers.

The family will receive family and friends to celebrate his life at his daughter''s home Sunday afternoon, February 3, 2013 from 3:00 a