Thomas Thomas

AKRON-Thomas F. Thomas, known variously to loved ones as Tom, Tifters, and U.T., heard his final song on October 10, 2018, in Fairlawn, OH at the age of 65 years after briefly suffering from leukemia.

Born January 7, 1953, Tom grew up in Silver Lake, OH and attended Walsh Jesuit High School where he played football under Coach Bill Ricco, recording an undefeated season in 1970.

Tom’s true love was music, though, and he followed his love to the Firestone Conservatory of Music at the University of Akron where he studied classical guitar. He was also instructed by Rey De La Torre and considered Andrés Segovia a major influence on his own virtuosic playing.

He spent time living in West Virginia and Arizona before returning to Northeast Ohio, but always remained the prototypically die-hard and long-suffering Cleveland sports fan. His dedication to the Browns, Indians and Cavs was far exceeded by his dedication to his family and friends, who will miss him forever.

Tom is predeceased by his parents Henry and Kathleen. He is survived by siblings, Michael (Judy), Martin, and Theresa (James); his fiancée, Rosanne Wagner; and his many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and a grandnephew.

Memorial Calling will be held October 20, 2018 1:00PM-3:00Pm with a short service following at Clifford-Shoemaker Funeral Home, 1930 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at www.lls.org. Services entrusted to Clifford-Shoemaker Funeral Home and Crematory, 330-928-2147.