Thomas B. Erdmann

Thomas B. Erdmann, 89, of Columbus, IN, passed away Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at his home. He was born in Bedford, IN on October 7, 1936 to Bruno Erdmann and Erna Schmidt Erdmann. He married Judith D. Burnette on March 23, 1957.

Tom spent much of his working life in the manufacturing industry, where he was employed at Arvin Industries for 32 years. His long tenure there reflected his dependable nature and strong work ethic. After retiring from Arvin Industries, he continued to share his skills and experience at Aisin USA, where he served for another 10 years. Through both of these roles, he earned the respect of his coworkers and built lasting connections with many people over the years.

A faithful member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Tom found strength and fellowship in his church community. His faith was an important part of his life, and he valued the friendships and sense of belonging that came from being part of the congregation.

Tom had a wide range of interests that reflected his curiosity, patience, and appreciation for craftsmanship and history. He enjoyed collecting coins and Indian artifacts found in Indiana, and he took great interest in the stories and significance behind the items he gathered. He was also passionate about competitive archery, a pursuit that demonstrated his focus and skill. In addition, he was a knife maker, a craft that suited his hands-on nature and his respect for well-made things. He was an animal lover as well, and his affection for animals was another reflection of his gentle heart.

Above all, Tom treasured the people in his life. He had many valued friendships and was known for the warmth and loyalty he brought to those relationships. He especially loved attending his grandchildren’s activities, and he took great pride in being present for the moments that mattered to them.

Celebration of Life Service will be held at 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at Jewell-Rittman Funeral Service & Crematory with Pastor Tim Carter officiating. Calling hours will be from 1 p.m. Tuesday until service time. Inurnment will be held at Garland Brook Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Our Hospice of South-Central Indiana or St. Peter’s Lutheran Church “Grief Share Group”.

Survivors include his children, Richard (Patricia) Erdmann, Tommy (Christi) Erdmann and Roni Erdmann all of Columbus, IN; grandchildren, Erin (Kevin) White, Evan (Amanda) Erdmann, Emily (Justin) Jones, Nicole Erdmann, Laura (John) Campbell, Jessica (Joshua) Bechman and Thomas Dylan Erdmann; 11 great grandchildren, 4 great great grandchildren; brother-in-law, Doug (Brent) Burnette; several nieces, nephews and his faithful feline, Callie.

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, Bruno and Erna Erdmann; wife, Judith Erdmann; son, Randall Erdmann; granddaughter, Stacy Erdmann; brothers, Harry and Donald Erdmann.