Thomas Zant
Thomas (Tom) Zant, 78, of St. Louis MO, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home on February 19, 2018, after a struggle this past year with pancreatic cancer.
Tom was born July 4, 1939 in Peoria, Illinois, making St. Louis, Missouri his home for the past 45 years. He was a graduate of the University of Illinois, and received his Master of Arts degree in Political Science along with his Doctorate degree of Philosophy from the University of Missouri, Columbia. He was a Professor of Political Science at Forest Park Community College for over 42 years, until his retirement in 2013. Tom had a deep passion for photography, and loved to capture the beauty of nature with his camera. His photo, titled “Old Courthouse in morning fog”, was selected for inclusion in the photo book “Images of St. Louis” by Quinta Scott.
Tom is preceded by his father and mother Wilbert and Virginia Zant; sister Peggy Nauman; and Ann Kelley, his love mate. He is survived by his beloved brother Jim Zant; brother-in-law Thomas (Joelyn) Nauman; dear friend and “like a son” Graig (Dianne) Gardiner; stepson Jay Kelley; daughter-in-law Diana Ramirez; grandchildren Joshua and Lucas, nephew and nieces David (Lisa) Nauman, Molly (Anne) Nauman, Colleen (Brandon) Osmon; cousin Bernie Zant; and many other loving relatives and friends.
Services will be held Saturday, March 3, 2018 at St. Francis Xavier College Church, 3628 Lindell Boulevard, St. Louis, MO at 10:00 am.
Tom will be greatly missed by his family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the National Public Radio (NPR) or Public Broadcasting Service (PBS).
“You don’t take a photograph. You ask quietly to borrow it.” ~ Unknown
To Whom It May Concern!
I worked with Tom for about 10 years at Forest Park. He taught Political Science and I, Psychology. On many occasions, we interact in the context on meetings, both formal and informal. He presented himself as knowledgeable and intelligent. However, what was more striking, he presented as patient and kind. I will miss his calm voice!
Bruce Munson, Asst. Professor, Psychology
This is so surreal for me. I was just thinking about him after god knows how many years. He was the professor who introduced me to Political Science I took several classes with him at the community college. I went on to obtain my BA in Political Science from UMSL. I am now a prosecutor in Iowa. He made a huge impact on my life. I lost touch with him many years ago but I did have an opportunity to thank him during our last conversation.
Rest Well