City of Springfield mourns death of former councilman Tommy Bieker

(From the City of Springfield)

Springfield Mayor Ken McClure expresses sincere condolences to the family and friends of a former City Councilman who died Sunday after a battle with leukemia. 

"It was a heavy heart that we share our sadness over the passing of former City Councilman Tommy Bieker. He was a bright light in our community, serving in many capacities to help make Springfield better. His work in environmental science will be remembered, as will his passion for bringing people together who have different backgrounds and perspectives," McClure said. 

Despite being ill, former Councilman Bieker contacted Cora Scott, Director of Public Information & Civic Engagement in July, wanting to help with public education about COVID-19. He shared video ideas and started shooting a public service announcement. 

“Tommy was a force of nature. He had a lot of great ideas and was always willing to jump in to help,” Scott said. “He texted me this past Wednesday again and asked that I share with people his comments to: 1) #maskup417 and 2) love each other and 3) he feels that we are literally the best community ever. Those are his words verbatim. He will be missed greatly.

Bieker was elected as an at-large City Council member (Seat D) in April 2011 and served until November 12 when he moved outside the city limits. While on City Council, he was a member of the Plans & Policies Committee and Community Involvement.