We are united by memories, laughter, tears, and the love we shared with Tommy “Tom” Brock, or as his son Adam refers to him, “Dada.” Tom was a man who never sought fame, fortune, or the spotlight but whose life radiated a light upon all who knew him. Quiet and reserved by nature, he knew good conversation and humor. His brilliant mind made him a scholarly and professional leader and the consummate, loveable, witty smarty pants who brought laughter to many.
Tom was born in Estherville, Iowa on April 3, 1952. He graduated from Ringsted High School, received his bachelor’s degree in Zoology from Iowa State University, and shortly after, earned his Ph.D. in Physiology and Biophysics from the University of Iowa. He began his career as an Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He served as Vice President for Encysive Pharmaceuticals for over 15 years and then as a Medical Science Liaison for United Therapeutics for 16 years.
Whether pursuing education, traveling around the world for work or just for fun, Tom was an adventurer (he loved to travel) and was a lifelong learner. His hallmarks were loyalty, steadfastness, kindness, compassion, and generosity. His colleagues, friends, and family knew this well. And while many had the pleasure to know Tom and be honored by his friendship, no relationships were as meaningful to him as his love for his entire family, most especially his beloved Adriana, and his children, Kara and mini-alter ego, Adam, and his two grandchildren, Cameron and Leela.
He was incredibly grateful and felt so much love during the last few months of his life, most especially from his selfless mother-in-law “Mama Elva” as he called her, his father-in-law, Isidro, his brothers and sisters-in-law, and his beautiful nieces and nephews who were an immense comfort to him during his final months on this earth.
Quiet by nature, Tom was formidable, and in the last few years, as he fought his greatest battle, he remained a warrior. We grieve at his passing from this earth but celebrate his life and light, which shall forever remain. “Well done good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23
Tom is preceded in death by his parents, James and Elaine Brock, and his brother Robert Brock.
Tom will be laid to rest on June 22, 2024, at Harrison Township Cemetery, 4438-4444 80th Ave., Swea City, Iowa. A Celebration of Tom’s Life will follow at noon at Smoke N Firehouse No. 20, 103 W. Maple Street, Ringsted, Iowa.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Houston Methodist Cancer Research Innovation Fund in honor of Dr. Tommy Brock. https://givingforms.houstonmethodist.org/GeneralGivingForm.
