Tommy A. Shults, 86, of Flatonia, passed away peacefully at his home, Thursday, September 2, 2021. He was born November 24, 1934, to Tom and Mellinee Shults(Atwood).  

He married his wife of 60 years Ysleta on September 23, 1960.  Proud father of one daughter, Arlene(Tony) Shults-Rogers. 

A 1954 graduate of Rockport High School. He attended the University of Houston and started his career with Urban Engineering in Corpus Christi Texas.  

He later started his own company T&Y plan Service and Builders, where he designed and build numerous homes in Rockport and surrounding areas.  His most notable design was The Rockport Band Shell.  

As we all knew Tommy had a love for trains and was known around Flatonia and other parts of Texas as “Sidetrack Tommy” and the “Train Man”.  His love of trains led him to dream of a train museum for Flatonia where he volunteered and also gave tours of the Flatonia Tower No. 3.  He will be remembered for the covered platform photo pavilion west of Flatonia near the double interlocker.  

Everyone was his friend and there was nothing he liked better than doing for his friends. One example was his development of the bi-annual ‘Pavilion Rail Party’.  A day long extravaganza consisting of food, family, friends, fun and camaraderie.  He was always there to welcome all with a smile and his face and a camera to memorialize the day.  

His special bond with daughter, Arlene was recognized by all who knew him.  

He is survived by his wife; daughter; nephews, Glyn (Pam) Landrum and Linny Landrum.  

Tommy was preceded in death by his father; mother; sisters, Joy Sue and Loyce; niece, Mellinee Landrum. 

Pallbearers, Ken Stavinoha, Matt Balboa, Dave Nickson, Mike Erhlick, Bill Cook, Greg Kadlub, B.L. Miers, Tom Autry.

Visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Sunday, September 12, 2021, at Charlie Marshall Funeral Home in Rockport. Graveside Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, September 12, 2021, at Rockport Cemetery.

Tommy was very knowledgeable had great insight for railroad heritage and preservation, he was instrumental in assisting with the establishment of SARHM.  He was inducted into our Membership as an Honorary Member 

SPECIAL TRACK WARRANT ISSUED SEP 02 2021 
FROM:  THE SARHM DISPATCHER
      TO:  THE TOMMY A. SHULTS SPECIAL

THE SIGNAL IS GREEN
THE MAINLINE TO HEAVEN IS YOURS
GOD'S SPEED

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