I went to school with Tom at Chanel in Bedford. He was hilarious, a stand-out personality. There's never enough time to get around to catching up with everybody you meant to.

It has been close to 30 years since I last saw Tom, and now feel a huge regret that I did not stay in contact over the years. Cathy, I don't know how well you remember me, so let me refresh your memory and share what Tom meant to me.  Tom was the first guy I worked for in my first real job.  In the spring of 1970, I joined the cash control department at Geauga Lake at the age of 17.  I had the pleasure of working for Tom for 4 years. He then started his law career and abandoned the "carnival life" (as he was fond of calling it). In my eyes, Tom will always be one of a kind.  I remember my first day and his patience as he taught me how to reconcile my first cash box.  We worked hard and long hours over those years, but we had a lot of fun in the process.  Army vet, working while going to law school, taking flying lessons, never a cross word, a nickname for everyone, always upbeat with that unmistakable spring in his step.  What a great role model for a young kid in his first job!  It is impossible to measure the impact others may have on the course of life, but I am confident in saying that Tom was at the top of my list.  I regret that I never told him that - so I will console myself Cathy with having now told you and your wonderful family. And thank you for sharing all the photos. I pray that you have trust in God's plan, comfort in knowing that heaven has gained a remarkable spirit, and that there are many of us sharing your loss. My sincere condolences to you and your family.

Tom was my professor at Cleveland Marshall this past semester.  His tax humor coupled with his good spirit made the class fun and interesting.  It truly was my favorite class.  I learned so much from him and was both sad and surprised to hear the news.

Just heard. Seeing that smile of his in this picture just brought back a flood of memories from Geauga Lake working for him for my college summers. What a great boss and what an engaging personality. I admire all he accomplished and the loving family I now see he has. May God comfort you Cathy and your family and help you through this time I can not imagine. I will pray for you all. Mark Stephens Geauga Lake Cash Control 1970s.

Tom was a great guy with a truly wonderful spirit.  He provided great service to the entire Holmes Family for four decades starting with Allen and Louise and continuing to this day.  Our prayers in his memory.  Our heartfelt condolences to his family.  Best Douglas Holmes

I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Vanik's passing.  He was a good and generous man.  I have him to thank for training me to be a good secretary and office manager.  He gave me a chance as a rookie and I am forever grateful to him for that.  I enjoyed working with him and considered him a friend.  My heart goes out to his family and friends.  May you find peace in happy memories.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Gerencser

My deepest sympathy for the Vanik family during their time of sorrow.  I will always remember him as a calm and gentle man that impacted all around him.  My God embrace him in his loving arms.  God bless him and his family.  Much love to all his girls and Bubba.

Kathy and family, I know that words won't take your pain away right now, but please take comfort in having this wonderful man, husband and father in your life.  Tom was also a brilliant, honest and dedicated attorney and I will be ever thankful to have known him and worked with him for almost 40 years. God bless you all.  Millie Turcus

Thank you for all that you have taught me in our short time together, you will be truly missed.

My thoughts and prayers are with your family on this day.

Tom provided steady guidance through certain unavoidable parts of life. Take comfort in knowing that he has gone on to be special guardian angel to watch over you.

Grief can be so hard, find comfort in your loving memories and the words of our  lord Jesus Christ at John 17:3 taking in  knowledge of God means everlasting life.

Yom was a long time friend of our family..along with the fact that he was our tax attorney/acccountant. He had such a nice way of staying calm even during the most emotional times. I will miss Tom alot. Jeff Kuhn

Tom was one of the nicest and most professional men we have had the honor of knowing.  He will be missed.  Our prayers are will his family.

We will remember Tom as one of the 'good guys'.  Our deepest sympathy during this sad time.

Tom was a kind, gentle and compassionate man.  He will truly be missed.  May your memories of Tom keep you strong through this trying time and know that he is in the embrace of God's arms.

Our hearts are sad. We send our deep sympathies. Tom was a light in our lives, too. affectionately, Susan and Leif Ancker

With Deepest Sympathy ...
Barbara ... Kwik Car Wash

Our deepest sympathy to all the Vanik Family.  May your fond memories, help ease your sorrow.  He was such a kind loving man! Janet and Mike Wendl

In loving memory of a wonderful man and a truly great friend.

Karel & Jerry Beck

OBITUARY

Thomas C. Vanik

28 August, 1946 – 28 January, 2013

Gattozzi & Son Funeral Home

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services