Thomas (Tom) Riley Lugar, former president of Thomas L. Green & Co., Inc., a manufacturer of biscuit and cracker baking equipment, passed away on August 9 at his home in Indianapolis.
Tom joined his family business, Thomas L. Green & Co., Inc., founded by his grandfather, in 1957 and served as president for more than 50 years. The company became a division of Reading Bakery Systems in 2001 and Tom remained active until shortly before his passing. Within the industry, Tom served as treasurer for the Cookie & Snack Bakers Assn. for more than 40 years and was active within the Biscuit & Cracker Manufacturers Assn.
Tom Lugar was passionate about the baking business, the customers and friends he made along the way, serving employees you have, and giving to the community you live in. For him “doing the right thing” and expecting others to do the same was assumed to be a part of a good business.
Tom was born in Indianapolis on August 8, 1933 to Marvin & Bertha (Green) Lugar. Tom graduated from Shortridge High School in 1951 and received a M.E. degree from Purdue University in 1955. After college, he briefly worked for Allison/Jet Engine Division until serving in the United States Army. Tom married Sarah (Sally) Schnaiter Lugar on April 12, 1958 and they were blessed with three children and five grandchildren.
Tom was a man of deep faith and lived by simple philosophies - honesty, fairness, service, and love, which he applied both personally and professionally. Without fanfare, Tom served as president, board member, and foundation board member for the Rotary Club of Indianapolis and had perfect weekly meeting attendance for 42 years. This June, Tom accepted the club's Lifetime Achievement Award. Tom also served on the board of Methodist Hospital for 14 years and served as Chairman of the Board for four years. Tom was a Sagamore of the Wabash; the highest honor which the Governor of Indiana can bestow, which is given to those who render distinguished service to the State of Indiana. Tom served on the Board of Directors of the Indianapolis Children’s Museum, was an Eagle Scout, and contributed regularly to the Scouting community. He was also a proud supporter of his alma mater, Purdue University; two of his children “followed in his footsteps” there.
Tom enjoyed his home life and spending time with family. Affectionately known as "Uncle Tom" by friends and family alike, he could always be called upon for a graceful prayer, a memorable toast or a silly joke in a style only he could deliver. Tom used his humor and wit to make every occasion special.
Tom raised orchids in his greenhouse, spent years building complex model ships and enjoyed capturing memories through photography—taking, printing and sharing with others. He also loved cheering on the Purdue Boilermakers, playing bridge with friends and watching and participating in the various activities of his wife, children and grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sally; sons Todd Lugar (Linda) and Scott Lugar (Teresa); daughter Nancy Lugar Fogle (Paul); grandchildren: Austin Lugar, Ryan Lugar, Benjamin Lugar (Emily), Brandon Lugar, and Megan Lugar; brother Richard Lugar (Charlene); sister Anne (Lugar) Johnson; sister-in-law Sharon Schnaiter; and step sister-in-law Lynn Caldwell; He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin Lugar and Bertha Green Lugar Caldwell; step-father Howard Caldwell Sr.; step-brother Howard Caldwell Jr.; and brothers-in-law Harlow Johnson and Warren Schnaiter.
A grateful company—both bigger and better because of him—gives tribute to Tom for his long and steady service to Thomas L. Green, the baking industry, his community and his employees. He worked hard to “do the right thing” both in his personal life, and in his company.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Indianapolis Rotary Foundation (650 N. Meridian St., Indpls., IN 46204), the Crossroads of America Council - Boy Scouts of America (7125 Fall Creek Rd North, Indpls., IN 46256), Meridian Street Methodist Church (5500 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis., IN 46208), or your favorite charity.
