Thomas Francis Sokolik

Thomas "Tommy" Francis Sokolik, age 73, co-owner of Paula's on Main and O'Sullivan's in Fort Wayne, passed away at his home on June 16, 2024 after a long illness. Born July 23, 1950 in Yonkers, NY, Tom moved to Fort Wayne in the 1980s when he discovered rugby and O'Sullivan's.

Shortly after settling in Fort Wayne, Tom met the love of his life, Sonja. They married on July 4, 1995, the same year they welcomed their first son, Schuyler. Their second son, Vladimir, joined the family several years later.

Together, Tom and Sonja created an environment where all were welcome. Their home and businesses became gathering places for their wide circle of friends and family. Tom often regaled the crowd with stories of his adventures, on and off the athletic field.

Tom's generosity was legendary; he was always willing to share his resources, his time and his energy with others.

As a child, Tom's family moved several times to different locations in New York State, eventually settling in Peekskill when he was 10. Throughout his school years, Tom was an exceptional athlete, excelling at football, wrestling, swimming, and baseball at Lakeland High School. He continued to compete in wrestling, golf and crew during his college years at New York Maritime and, when he moved to Fort Wayne, he dedicated his efforts to rugby and golf.

Tom is survived by his wife, Sonja Aghabekian, and his sons, Schuyler and Vladimir. He is also survived by his brother, Joseph Sokolik; sisters, Carolyn (Martin) Cavins, Patricia (Robert) Piacente, and Mary (Jerry) Chapmon; and sisters-in-law, Donna Sokolik, Sylvia Aghabekian Lowden and Keke Aghabekian Parrish; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Also surviving is Tom's lifelong friend, James (Karin) Johnson, and his friend and business partner, Frank Casagrande.

Tom was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Therese Sokolik and his brother, Francis.

A celebration of Tom's life will be held on Sunday, June 23, at 1:00 pm at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Homes - Covington Knolls, located at 8325 Covington Road in Fort Wayne.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the World Central Kitchen at wck.org or your local PBS at www.pbs.org.