Thomas "Tom" A. Dreiling, 77, Denver, died January 30, 2012, at his home.

He was born Nov. 25, 1934 to Richard and Mollie (Eichman) Dreiling. Tom was a 1953 graduate of St. Joseph's Military Academy in Hays, KS. After graduation, he continued his studies in journalism at Fort Hays State University before opting out to join the United States Air Force in 1955, where he served as an active member for four years.

After returning to civilian life, Tom embarked on his career in journalism. He edited and published newspapers in Kansas and Wyoming during his 44-year career. Those papers included: The Ellis County Star, The Hays Daily News, The Goodland Daily News, The Sheridan Press, The Colby Free Press and The Norton Telegram. Tom did take a short break from his writing to serve as the development/endowment/alumni director at his alma mater -- Thomas More Prep-Marian High School from 1989-1995.

Tom's passion was his children and grandchildren, but also his writing. His unique writing style had a way of making people feel compelled to read his articles, which often evoked deep thought, laughter and even tears. Until his death, he continued to write a weekly column titled "Man of the Plains" for The Hays Daily News and other area papers.

Survivors include Tom's step-daughter, Denise Burrows and her husband, Darren, of Centennial, CO; son, Lance Dreiling and his wife, Tobie, of Centennial, CO, and son, Todd Dreiling and his wife, Darci, of Centennial, CO; five grandchildren, Samantha Burrows, Alyssa and Caleb Dreiling, Grayson and Kennadi Dreiling. Other survivors include his brothers, Don, Dean and Gene Dreiling, and two sisters Dolores (Tootsie) Schlyer and JoAnn Jayjack.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Jean (Eberle) Dreiling, brothers, Norbert and Jim Dreiling, and sister, Mary Bieker.

A wake will be held on Friday, February 10, 2012, at 6:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 307 West 13th Street, Goodland, KS. Services will be at the church on Saturday, February 11, 2012, at 10:00 a.m. Interment of the remains will follow immediately at the Goodland Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to attend a lunch gathering at the church.

Memorials are suggested to: The St. Thomas More Society through TMP-M Endowment Office, 1701 Hall Street, Hays, KS 67601.

Please make gifts in memory of Tom Dreiling.

Condolences for the family can be left at www.horancares.com.