Thomas Zutell

He received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of South Florida, a Juris Doctor and Master of Arts in Mass Communications from the University of Florida. He worked for the Department of Financial Services, Office of Insurance Regulation in Tallahassee.

Tom was an artist, had an outgoing personality, a sharp wit and he loved to make people laugh. His family enjoys looking through his portfolio of sketches and humorous cartoons, some of which are framed. He also used his art talents painting wall murals for local businesses when he lived in Gainesville. He volunteered with the March of Dimes in Tallahassee to assist with several Wine & Food Festivals featuring celebrity chefs for these fund-raising events. Tom lived with his family in Iran in 1979 when his father accepted an opportunity to work overseas. Tom was among one of the last groups of American civilians to leave when the revolution started. He had a harrowing adventure when a tire on his plane blew on takeoff from Tehran and required an emergency landing in Amsterdam. In addition to his adventurous stay in Iran, Tom also traveled abroad to Egypt, Italy and other European locations and would often recall those memories fondly. His greatest joys while at home, however, were listening to music and cooking. Tom was a great cook, you never wanted to miss a meal from him. He was a loyal and kind son, loving brother and devoted partner. Tom brought light and laughter to all he knew. He will be forever cherished in our hearts and profoundly missed.

Tom is survived by his parents, Lorraine and Richard Zutell; brother, Stephen Zutell (Cathy); sister, Linda Zutell; sister, Dorothy Burgess (Joe); partner, Charles McElroy; close family friend, Tina Scharnbeck; nieces and nephews; grandnephews and several feline family members. He was predeceased by his sister, Nancy Zutell.

There will be a visitation Saturday, October 15 from 4pm - 6pm at Culley’s MeadowWood Funeral Home, 1737 Riggins Road, Tallahassee, FL. There will be a visitation at 10am with a Funeral Mass beginning at 11am Saturday, October 22, officiated by close friend, Father Penn Dawson, S.J., at St. Augustine Church & Catholic Center 1738 W. University Avenue, Gainesville, FL.

Please consider a donation to the Humane Society or other charity of choice in lieu of flowers.