Rob Tomey — Some Little Giant
Rob Tomey wasn't a Wabash graduate. In fact, Rob would keep tabs on Purdue football games each and every Saturday afternoon.
But only during breaks of the Wabash home football games.
For at least the last 15 years, Rob has been a fixture on the home football game clock. During my eight years as SID, Rob would pop into the press box about an hour before the game, catch up on what was happening with my staff, and get ready to watch the Little Giants pick up another victory.
A couple of years ago Rob was diagnosed with colon cancer. He continued to man his duties as the game clock operator right up to the very end.
You see, Rob passed away last weekend, losing the battle he fought so well the past few years.
How important was working at the Wabash football games for Rob? At the calling yesterday at the funeral home, his game management credentials from the Monon Bell games he worked were on display as part of a tribute to his life. That included the credential from this year's contest, a game that featured Rob in a new roll — honorary coach. Rob's commitment to the football program was recognized by the players and coaches he served so well.
Wabash opens the 2007 football season against Franklin College in September. I'm looking forward to watching the Little Giants take the field in an attempt to earn their third consecutive North Coast Athletic Conference crown. But I'll miss my friend, Rob Tomey. There will be a new clock operator, but Rob will always be a part of game day. Those of us who worked with Rob will still think fondly of him before that Saturday afternoon kickoff.
Comments
Brent,
Thank you for your kind words about Rob and for recognizing him. His determination, attitude and faith in Jesus Christ was an inspiration to every he knew. It was an honor to know him and experience firsthand the confidence he had in God to the very end of his life.
Romans 8:28,
Steve Wilke
Posted by: Steve Wilke | December 15, 2006 09:21 AM
Hi Brent,
As Rob's Dad I can not even start to tell you what your story about Rob meant to us as a family.Rob was more than a "LITTLE GIANT" to most who knew him.He was a person hardly anyone would forget after having met him. He will live on as long as anyone who ever knew hin is alive. His love for Wabash and all are a part of the college was a hugh part of his life especially running the clock for the home football games.
His Dad
Posted by: Horace Tomey | December 15, 2006 05:47 PM
Brent, you can never know how much this article has meant. Rob loved Wabash College, they were his family also. During his last season in the press box I would always ask him after the games if he understood all of the "lingo" going on up there. He always said yes, and I knew he meant it. I'm so glad he was able to be honored as the "Honorary Coach of the Week". He was so proud to be a part of the team that week. I'm sure he'll be in your memories next football season....Thank you for the tribute.
Cindy
Posted by: Cindy | February 24, 2007 12:11 PM