Thomas "Tom" Ketzer

Thomas “Tom” Ketzer, 86, died November 10, 2026. Tom was born on May 1, 1940, in Toledo, Ohio, the son of Rudolph and Evelyn Ketzer, and the brother of Bob, John, and Judy Ketzer. He later made his home in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Tom attended St. Josephs Catholic school in Maumee, Ohio, and graduated from Bowling Green State University, Ohio. From the beginning, he carried himself with a steady sense of purpose—someone who believed in showing up, doing the work well, and doing it with care.

Over the course of a long and diligent career, Tom worked for multiple companies in roles spanning inventory control management and logistics, accounting, and human resources. His commitment to providing for those he loved was evident in the consistency and pride he brought to his work. He ultimately retired from Mecklenburg County in 2017, looking forward to travel and to more time with his beautiful wife and family.

Tom was blessed with his beautiful wife, Lu, of over 50 years, and a wonderful family: three children, Dawn, Amy (Chris), and TJ (Jayme). Known affectionately as Papa, Tom cherished his grandchildren—Briana, Nick, Evie, Emily (Taylor), Warren (Maddie), Maggie (Austin), and Wyatt—and his great-grandchildren, Landon, Mitchell, Henry, and Archie. His devotion was not loud or showy; it was constant, expressed in presence, in attention, and in the quiet ways he made others feel supported and loved.

Baseball games, Sunday gatherings, life lessons, stories from the past, afternoon burgers, and holiday traditions were among the many things Tom loved to share with his family. He also treasured traveling with Lu to all parts of the country, with Custer State Park holding a special place in their hearts. At home, Tom and Lu could often be found in their back yard, enjoying the sights of nature, listening to the birds, and watching the wildlife—simple moments that reflected how deeply he valued the world around him and the people beside him.

Tom also believed in giving back. He served meals at the local men’s homeless shelter, offering his time in a spirit of service and responsibility to the community he called home.

A loving husband, father, and grandfather, Tom brought warmth wherever he went and was adored by his family. His legacy lives on in the love he gave so faithfully and in the way he reminded those around him to savor family and to appreciate this beautiful world.

The Ketzer Family appreciates all the love and support from family, friends and neighbors.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Tom’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to be announced.