A life of service remembered

Died: July 11, 2026

Thomas Charles ‘Tom’ Cheeseman was born on Saturday, March 10, 1956, in Ballarat, Victoria, the cherished son of Alfred and Daphne Cheeseman and a much-loved brother to Ronald, George, Peter and Helen.

Tom spent his childhood at Eurambeen East Homestead and attended Beaufort State School before continuing his education at Beaufort High School.

Even as a student, he displayed the qualities that would define his life.

His school reports described him as a cooperative student who made sound progress, and his dedication to learning earned him high marks in mathematics, English and science.

Those early years laid the foundation for a lifetime of hard work, perseverance and quiet determination.

Upon leaving school, Tom set his sights on joining the Australian Army.

Although his first application was unsuccessful, and he was advised to gain more life experience and financial independence, he refused to let disappointment stand in the way of his ambition.

He accepted work as a farm hand with Keith and Audrey Lofts, gaining valuable experience before achieving his goal of enlisting in the Australian Army in 1973.

Army life suited Tom well.

Through dedication, discipline and leadership, he rose through the ranks to become a Sergeant - a title that remained synonymous with him long after his military career had ended.

His years of service reflected his unwavering commitment to duty and to those who served alongside him.

Sadly, Tom's Army career was cut short after he suffered a serious ankle injury that resulted in his medical discharge.

True to his resilient nature, he embraced a new beginning, packing up his car and boat and moving to Deniliquin, the town that would become his home for the remainder of his life.

Tom initially worked in the shearing sheds as an overseer, and it was during this period that he met Di Mutch.

Together, they welcomed their daughter, Mackenzie, whose arrival transformed Tom's life.

Becoming a father was one of his greatest joys, and he remained immensely proud of Mackenzie throughout his life.

Never afraid of hard work, Tom went on to work for Peter Danckert, Mick and Robyn Thorpe, and later Watson's Drilling.

His strong work ethic and reliability earned him the respect of employers and colleagues alike.

Unfortunately, ongoing health issues eventually led to his medical retirement.

Even after retiring from full-time employment, Tom continued to keep himself busy through odd jobs before officially retiring in June last year.

Retirement gave him the opportunity to devote more of his time to the people and organisations that meant so much to him.

A passionate member of both the Deniliquin Aero Club and the Deniliquin RSL Sub-Branch, Tom remained committed to serving his community long after his Army service had concluded.

His extensive knowledge of military honours and awards became an invaluable resource to countless veterans and families.

He willingly dedicated countless hours helping others research, restore and better understand the medals and service records of loved ones, ensuring their stories and sacrifices would never be forgotten.

Following Tom's passing, the Deniliquin RSL Sub-Branch paid tribute to a man who had become an integral part of their organisation:

"For many years Sarge was an integral part of our sub-branch,“ they said.

“His knowledge of honours and awards was second to none, and he devoted countless hours helping veterans and families research, restore and understand their own or their loved ones' medals.

"Sarge's boots will be impossible to fill, but his service, friendship and commitment to the Sub-Branch will never be forgotten."

Those words capture the essence of the man so many knew simply as ‘Sarge’.

Tom's life was defined by service - service to his country, service to his community and service to those around him.

He was a man of integrity, loyalty and quiet generosity who believed in helping others without seeking recognition.

His legacy lives on not only through his family, especially his beloved daughter Mackenzie, but also through the countless lives he touched, the veterans he assisted and the friendships he forged over a lifetime.

Thomas Charles ‘Tom’ Cheeseman will be remembered with deep affection, profound respect and sincere gratitude.

His life was one of purpose, commitment and unwavering dedication, a life well lived, and one that leaves an enduring legacy.

Rest easy, Sarge. Your duty is done.

~ supplied by Mackenzie Cheeseman

• ‘Sarge’ was laid to rest in his childhood home of Beaufort on July 27. This Sunday, August 9, the Deniliquin RSL Sub-branch and Deniliquin RSL Club will host a memorial service in his honour. It will be held in the club’s Dunlop Room (upstairs) from 1pm. All are welcome and guests are asked to please wear colour.