Thomas Buysse, 82, passed away on June 20, 2026, while in hospice care in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Tom was born in Kewanee, Illinois, on January 6, 1944, to Dale and Mary Buysse. He was the oldest of thirteen children and spent his childhood on the family farm near Coal Valley, Illinois. He graduated from Orion High School in 1962. He married Agnes Pilcher of Lynn Center, Illinois, and together they raised three children: Angie Buysse (Cynthia) of Seattle, Washington; Jeffery Buysse (Cary) of Saugatuck, Michigan; and Bob Buysse (Sigita) of Fayetteville, Arkansas. After a successful career in sales and sales management, Tom moved his family to Springdale, Arkansas, in 1977. There he became a small business owner, purchasing his first Tastee-Freeze restaurant and later building several other restaurants and businesses.
In 1984, he married Patricia Brown of Fayetteville, Arkansas, and became a devoted stepfather to Steven Brown of Fayetteville. After many years in business, Tom semi-retired and devoted more time to pursuing his hobby of golf. In 2012, Tom and Pat moved to Foley, Alabama, to enjoy warmer weather, the beach, and to play more golf. They eventually moved back to Northwest Arkansas to be closer to family and friends. Tom and Pat shared 42 years of marriage filled with family, friendship, and cherished memories.
Tom will be remembered as a quiet and strong man who greeted everyone with a smile. He was hardworking, always maintained a positive attitude, and was never one to complain. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dale and Mary Buysse, and his sisters Mary, Carol, and Laurie.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia; his children, Angie, Jeffery, and Bob; his stepson, Steven Brown(Amy); his grandson, Shane Brown; his granddaughter, Greta Buysse; his many brothers and sisters; and countless extended family members and friends.
Tom's wishes were to be cremated. A memorial gathering for family and friends will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers or donations, Tom asked for something simple: share a smile, offer a hug, and remember the good times.