Harold Thomas Sauerbrei

Harold Thomas Sauerbrei was born on December 31, 1941, in Berea, Oh. to Harold Frederick and Dorothy Taft Sauerbrei. He passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his entire family on Monday, August 6, 2012, following a brief battle with cancer.

Tom grew up in Strongsville, Oh. He attended Western Reserve Academy and graduated from Strongsville High School in 1959. Being a strong believer in higher education, he received a MBA in marketing at the University of Chicago, a Bacheolor of Science in Electrical Engineering at Case Institute of Technology and a Bachelor in Arts in Physics at Miami University of Ohio.

In 1970, Tom moved to Fresno, Ca. to work with Valley Decorating as Vice President of Marketing and Development. He continued to grow with the company and became the President in 1982. He worked with Valley Decorating for 17 years. Recognizing the need for a greater variety of outdoor commercial décor he established Sierra Display, Inc. in 1987. Many of his peers recognize him as a legend in the industry.

Tom truly enjoyed the outdoors and became involved with several competitive sports. He enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren and included them in his activities whenever possible. He took pride in each and every one of his family.

He leaves behind Barbara, his wife and the love of his life of 30 years; his children, Sharon Noland and her husband Robert, Tom Sauerbrei and his wife Trisha, Karren Marshall and her husband Steven, Jennifer Schmidt and her husband Dave, Blanca Sauerbrei and Bradley Sauerbrei; grandchildren, Camber, Rebecca, Robert, Sam, Abigail, Casper, Blake, Austin and Ryan; and his great-grandchildren Haylie, Grace, and Bristol.

Special thanks and recognition is extended to Dr. Greg Copeland and Nancy Hinds Hospice for their care and compassion during his final days.

A Memorial Service will be held at Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns & Blair, 1525 E. Saginaw Way, on Friday, September 7, 2012, at 11:00 a.m.

Remembrances may be made to Nancy Hinds Hospice; or Valley Childrens Hospital in lieu of flowers.