Thomas Edward Wessel

Tom was born on a U.S. Army base in the Philippines on March 25, 1947, to the late William W. and Leonora Salas Wessel. He joins his beloved wife Judith “Judy” Wessel who died in June. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Steven A. and David L. Wessel, both of whom died in the service of their country.

Tom proudly served in the U.S. Army and then pursued his education graduating Suma Cum Laude with a business degree from Franklin University, and an MBA from The Ohio State University. His enthusiasm and attention to detail brought Tom great success in a business career in the logistics industry beginning with Rail Van Global Logistics and concluding with Pacer International. Following that success, Tom endeavored to give back to the industry he loved so much by teaching at Columbus State. His ongoing mentorship impacted a great many lives.

Life was not all work and no play for Tom. He was a great lover of social gatherings frequently entertaining and holding court with his beloved mother and others in local venues, Lindeys, and Bravo on Bethel. It didn't hurt that he lived in German Village in the 80s and was frequently out and about. When Tom married and moved to Kenbrook, he pursued league pool and golf travels with the same passion he approached his education. He was always in the championship hunt, and his trophy case reflected the results. He was also a classic car enthusiast, having collected Pontiac GTOs, a DMC Delorean, many BMW 6 Series sport coupes and his treasured big cat the Jaguar XJ8 Supercharged. Many trips to Florida were taken in that lap of luxury with Judy as navigator.

Tom leaves behind many loved ones whom he deeply cherished: “adopted” daughter, Sharon Pfennig, sister-in-law, Karen Shrieves Wessell, niece Stephanie (Joseph Sorkin) McCall, good friend, Stewart Pitchford, Judy’s brother, Michael, and grandson, Trevor Hildebrandt. He is also survived by his sister, Linda J. Rougeux, sister-in-law, Patty Osborne, and several step-children and grandchildren.

Those closest to Tom take great comfort that he is now reunited with the love of his life, and “Judy and Tom” will be remembered lovingly together forever.

Respects may be paid in person from 3-6 pm on October 28, 2026, at Schoedinger Northwest, 1740 Zolinger Road, Columbus, Ohio, 43221. A burial service will be held privately at a later date.