Thomas Miles Wiltrout passed away on Sunday, March 13, 2022, after a fight with cancer that spanned over 20 years. During that time, Tom won so many battles that cancer's eventual victory, was rendered practically meaningless.
Tom was born on August 23, 1945 to Frank and Julia Wiltrout in South Bend, IN, the second of seven children: older sister Annette Papandrea of Atlanta, GA (deceased) and younger siblings Gregory Wiltrout of Buffalo, NY; Christine Ford of Indianapolis, IN (deceased); John WIItrout of South Bend, IN; Frances DeVliegher of South Bend, IN; and Cynthia Burns of South Bend, IN. He graduated from South Bend Central High School and attended Indiana University. His early professional career included stints as a test driver for Bendix Brake Co. and as comptroller for a department store.
But most of his life, Tom was a salesman, a really good one. He worked in the electrical supply industry for about 40 years, first for other people and then, in 1984, for himself, when he and his wife Margaret started their own business. Wiltrout Sales, Inc. survives to this day, now led by Tom's youngest son, Tim, who purchased the company upon Tom's retirement in 2015. Tom's success as a salesman was a result of his work ethic, willingness to listen to his customers, and above all, his genuine likability.
Tom had many interests and passions. He loved science fiction, particularly the works of Arthur C. Clarke; the movies of Mel Brooks, which he quoted almost daily; classical music; downhill skiing; travel; photography; painting; gardening; hiking and camping with family; rock collecting; ingenious gadgets and cool cars.
In his later years, he enjoyed roles of service and mentorship. Along with a few others, he pioneered what is now the universally accepted certification program for the Manufacturer's Representative industry. He also volunteered as a cancer patient advocate at the Joe and Shelly Schwartz Cancer Center at IU North hospital, and served as a sponsor in Alcoholics Anonymous.
He hated cats, but put up with them for his family's sake. Tom doted upon his five grandchildren (unless he was playing a prank on one of them, which for him was just another form of doting).
He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Margaret (Jackson) Wiltrout, son Michael Wiltrout, Indianapolis, IN (married to Karen Mesalam Wiltrout), father of Jackson and Ruby Wiltrout; son Timothy Wiltrout, Zionsville, IN (formerly married to Katie Connor), father of Joseph, Nicholas and Peter.
A celebration of life will be held at Simplicity Funeral and Cremation Care (125 West Sycamore Street, Zionsville, IN 46077; 317-344-3600) from 4-6 pm on Thursday, March 24, 2022. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Tom's name to: Compassus Hospice Care, 8450 North Payne Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268 or to: The Joe and Shelly Schwartz Cancer Center, 11645 North Illinois Street, Carmel, IN 46032.

03/19/2022 JFC