Thomas William Savitski

Born on July 7, 1945, in Scranton, Ohio, to William F. and Frances R. Savitski, Tom was the youngest of six children. He was preceded in death by his siblings Vince, Marion, Ralph, Frances, and Irene, and now joins them in eternal rest as the last survivor of his generation.

Tom grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. He graduated from Brunnerdale Seminary High School in Canton, Ohio, where he developed the strong moral foundation that would define his character. Brunnerdale also happens to be the backdrop of so many stories detailing countless teenage escapades.

Tom proudly served as a Brook Park Fire Fighter in the early 1970s. He later transitioned to become a skilled tool and die maker, a craft that would take him and his family on adventures across the country. His dedication to his work with Lester Industries led the family from Ohio to Rome, Georgia, and then briefly to Latrobe, Pennsylvania (a stop the family remembers with humor as lasting "not briefly enough"), before settling in Sanford, North Carolina, where he continued his career with GKN. Tom concluded his working years at Morton Metalcraft, retiring in 2007 after years of exemplary service.

Tom's first marriage to Victoria blessed him with three children: Christine Savitski Eatmon, Thomas W. Savitski, Jr., and Rebecca M. Savitski.

Following retirement, Tom embraced his adventurous spirit, traveling throughout the country in his RV and discovering new places and experiences. He spent time in Naples, Florida, enjoying the sunshine and coastal lifestyle, before eventually returning to Apex, North Carolina, where he spent his final years.

Tom was renowned for his culinary talents and took immense joy in hosting family gatherings. His kitchen was the heart of every celebration, filled with laughter, wonderful aromas, and the love that he poured into every meal. Whether it was a holiday feast or a simple Sunday dinner, Tom's cooking brought the family together and created countless treasured memories.

His love for the ocean ran deep, and some of his happiest moments were spent deep sea fishing with his son, Tom Jr. Perhaps nothing brought Tom Sr. more joy than his grandchildren. He cherished every moment spent with Alex Teasdale, Meredith Teasdale, Joshua Eatmon, Christian Gray, Taylor Savitski Henry, Grace Savitski, and Kennedy Battle. His face would light up in their presence and he delighted in spending time with them.

Tom's joy reached new heights with the recent arrivals of his great-grandchildren, Charlie Ann Teasdale and Magellan Van Henry. His excitement at meeting these newest family members was immeasurable, and his legacy of love will continue through them.

While we mourn the loss of our father and grandfather, we celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will endure through the values he instilled in his family and the love he shared so freely. Tom's spirit lives on in the laughter of his grandchildren, the recipes passed down through generations, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness and wisdom.

Tom is survived by his three children, Christine, Thomas Jr., and Rebecca; his seven grandchildren; his two great-grandchildren; and a host of friends and extended family members who were blessed to know him.

The family will honor Tom's memory with a private gathering, sharing stories, laughter, and the kind of meal he would have loved to prepare himself.

Rest in peace, Dad. Your love, laughter, and legacy will live on forever in our hearts.